“All I know most surely about morality and obligation I owe to football”,
Psalm 49
Real richesDo not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendour of their houses increases; for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendour will not descend with them. Psalm 49:16-17
These verses are a timely reminder to us not to put our confidence in money and not to be envious of others. A friend of mine tells the story of how he had always wanted a Mercedes. He was successful, bought his Mercedes and was really pleased. Then one day cruising on the motorway he was overtaken by a bigger Mercedes…..
The world of sport is not a level playing field. Some people are millionaires; others struggle to survive. In the sport I know best – athletics (track and field) some athletes are funded by the national federation, perhaps supplemented by sponsors’ contracts. Others are totally self-funded. When the trials come, it is not unknown for the unfunded to win the race.
Whatever your financial circumstances there are several Christian principles to remember:
1 Don’t be distracted by those who are better off than you. “Overawed” (NIV) is an interesting word. Good News Bible says: “Don’t be upset”; The Message “don’t be impressed”. The sense is don’t be envious or frustrated and don’t value them higher as people because of money.
2 Be content – there is so much in the New Testament about contentment.
3 Remember that you cannot take wealth with you when you die. You know the question that is asked when someone dies: “How much did he leave?” Well, he left it all!
Jesus said: Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. Matthew 6:19-20