Wanting more can be a good or bad thing. As Christians, we can be content in the Lord while wanting things to be better, especially as the effects of sin have made life difficult and painful.
To quote one of my favorite songs, (Creature by Half Alive) “Standing in the balance of complete and incomplete” reflects how we are complete in Christ in one sense but not quite there while we are on this Earth.
More Money
Wanting to make more money can be a good thing: earning money through hard work, bringing value to the world, providing for others, not putting yourself in a financially bad situation
On the flipside, wanting more money can be a bad thing: cutting corners to get more, not being generous / hoarding only for yourself, being irresponsible with God’s resources
The Way to Work
Striving for excellence is one of the ways we glorify God, by using our talents for good or enjoying our work. The process of sanctification is usually focused on spiritual refinement, and wanting more is a part of that.
Being ambitious for the Lord is a good thing. We just need to be careful not to fall into the trap of trying to take control of making our lives better or to find our value in our achievements. Be careful not to think your ways are better than God’s ways or neglect consulting the Lord before taking action.
Here are some passages relating to work:
- The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty. (Proverbs 21:5)
- In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. (Proverbs 16:9)
- Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. (Psalm 127:1)
- Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58)
God sometimes calls individuals entrepreneurship to provide financial support to further his kingdom. He may also call someone to a specific industry to reach those who have never heard or experienced his love. Work done without God is in vain, but work that contributes to God’s kingdom lasts forever.
Better Relationships
Wanting better relationships is part of Jesus’ heart as we saw him reconciling people of different cultures and social classes in the New Testament. Striving for more peace, unity, and love in relationships is a wonderful goal if you are not in it for selfish reasons.
If someone is disrespecting or demeaning you, it is wise and healthy to call them out. It isn’t acceptable behavior, because being made in God’s image, they should not be acting in such a way. And because you are made in God’s image and should not be treated that way.
We are responsible for how we respond to the issues of people and specific relationships, though we are not responsible for making it better. In this sense, we can strive for better relationships and trust in God for the rest.
A Better World
Everyone feels the tension of wanting something more or better. It’s an intrinsic aspect of humanity. If we do so in our best efforts to reflect who God is, we might be able to make a difference in the world.
Hello, I’m Amenda Wong. With years of professional experience in marketing as a graphic designer, I’ve cultivated a diverse skill set. Beyond my career, I’m passionate about understanding different perspectives and meaningful dialogue. In my spare time, I also enjoy using whatever talents I have to serve my community.