Blessings And Sorrows

1. Woe of wealth

Why does worldly wealth caused woe? It is a great temptation to be selfish and callous. Jesus chose poverty. Most rich people would not choose poverty. Wealth hardens hearts. Why do the wealthy oppose government programs to help the poor and demand budget cuts in welfare and oppose increases in taxes on the rich? Surely selfishness is a strong reason.

2. Woe of full bellies

In Europe and America we are well fed, but sick in body and spirit. Poor countries cannot afford to pollute their food with all the junk that we do. Jesus said woe to the full. Those who eat well now may end up empty on judgment day, because of the callous hearts that go along with wealth and full bellies.

3. Woe of laughter

Why did Jesus say woe to those who laugh now? Notice he said laugh “now.” Greed is a fashion statement. Laughter can reveal an attitude of not caring about the suffering. Being thrilled about the things of this world, fashions, popularity, money and partying can reveal a calloused heart. Jesus warned about the fate of those with hard, uncaring hearts.

4. Woe of popularity

Flattery can be a deadly trap. Pastors often joke that if everyone likes us we must be doing something wrong. Jesus made people angry. Elijah was not very popular. The priests of Ba’al (1 Kings 18) were far more popular. A lonely Elijah confronted 450 priests of Ba’al. On judgment day only one reputation will matter, being popular with God.

Outro/Take Home

God’s thoughts are so far above ours and the culture which permeates our daily thoughts. Let us take a cleansing bath for our souls and learn to view the world as God does.