Lecture on Trusting God and the Spirit of Mammon

Introduction

• Opening Prayer: Asking for revelation knowledge, uninterrupted by any forces.
• Emphasis on: God has to be our source.

James 5:1-8 (NLT)

• Rich People Warning: Warnings to the rich who trust in their wealth rather than God.
  • Wealth rotting away.
  • Gold and silver corroded.
  • Testifying against them on judgment day.
  • Condemnation of cheating field workers.
• Patience and Trust: Encourages believers to be patient and trust in the Lord’s return.

Depending on God as Your Source

• Faith and Grace: (Romans 4:16) Need faith to receive everything Grace has made available.
• God’s Infinite Provision: Grace is described as God's infinite, unmerited provision (Jesus).
• Unmerited Abounding Provision: Continual increase of provision.
• Dependence on Him: Grace demands dependence on God.

Warnings Against the Love of Money

• Conviction by the Holy Spirit: Conviction doesn’t mean feeling bad, but being convinced to trust God.
• All-out Assault: There’s a spiritual assault against us trusting God.

Evidence of Love of Money

1. Letting a paycheck direct your decisions over God.
2. Anxiety and fear surrounding money.
3. Obsession with building wealth.
4. Cheating, lying, and stealing to gain wealth.
5. Feeling stingy.
6. Not giving offerings.

Biblical References on Money and Trust

• Hebrews 13:5 (Amplified Version): Be free from love of money and be content.
• 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NLT): Perils of the last days including love of money.
• Luke 16:13: Cannot serve both God and Mammon.

Insights into the Spirit of Mammon (Riches)

• Mammon Defined: Aramaic word meaning riches; considered a Syrian god of riches and money.
• Trust Issues: Mammon competes with God for our hearts and trust.
• Worldly Impacts: References to Babylon as a system engulfed by greed, indicative of current systems motivated by wealth.

a## Conclusion

• Trust in God: Only God should be trusted above all material wealth.
• Call to Reflection: Reflect on personal dependence on money versus dependence on God.

Affirmations

• Trust God in All Circumstances: Personal testimonies of trusting God for provision and not being driven by money.
• Final Prayer: Focus on putting trust in God as the ultimate provider.