According to research by university professors Richard Ryan and Tim Kasser, there's a dark side to the "American dream" of prosperity, and the problem isn't confined to the United States. Based on data collected from subjects in 12 countries, Kasser says that in every culture he's studied, there are psychologically unhelpful and often destructive results from pursuing wealth. The problem is not having money, but "living a life where that's your focus."

In today's Scripture, Jesus warned His followers: "Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses" (Luke 12:15). But our lingering conviction that more money will bring us more happiness and satisfaction makes it difficult to believe either the psychologists or the Son of God.

To counter our natural tendency toward covetousness, Christ urged us to be rich toward God and to trust Him for all our needs. He commands us to "seek the kingdom of God," and promises that "all these things" (life's necessities) will be added to us (v.31).

Making Christ our focus does not guarantee prosperity but joy and contentment beyond our dreams.  — David C. McCasland