1991-12-23-Greed

Session

Lesson

There are many forms of this human characteristic trait of greed. Most of the time we think of greed as concerning monetary related values. This is not always so, for greed is a deep-seeded human emotion character.

It is manifested in many other ways also, such as selfish desire for attention from others and the lack of consideration for their needs. It is important to recognize greed in its many manifestations. It is not a mortal sin, however, no. It is rather, a leftover from primitive times when self-preservation was more necessary.

Now in your modern day it is seen as childlike. The mature person is grown beyond the mere innate instinctive passion for self. The mature person is seeing himself in broader context. He understands his dependence and devotion to others and to God. This understanding of one's self within a community network, all dependent on our Father, frees the individual from instinctive fear for self.

Then, one can begin to root out the weeds of greed and other self-serving motivations, for it is through understanding of reality that one can become fearlessly unselfish. Unselfishness does not mean recklessness, over-generosity, or encompass foolhardy actions. Fairness in fellow dealing does not risk yourself.

To do unto others as you would have them do unto you, does not involve reckless or unwise opening of yourself to economic vulnerability. It is rather a person to person - day by day living as in God's sight, and showing His noble character through yourself. Walking in light will not require stumbling in darkness. One foot before the other on firm ground is all that is asked.

You nor any of you are asked or required to risk your security. Be assured that your ultimate security is in God, and He who loves you, protects you, and cherishes you will not put you in harm's way.