Overcoming Greed Series

OVERCOMING GREED

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 12:15

"And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."

Supporting Texts: 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Proverbs 15:27; Ecclesiastes 5:10; Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 6:24

INTRODUCTION:

Greed is an insatiable desire for more—more wealth, more possessions, more power, and more status. It is a destructive force that drives people to dishonesty, oppression, and idolatry. Scripture warns us repeatedly about the dangers of covetousness and the spiritual consequences that follow a greedy heart.

In a world that constantly promotes materialism and equates success with accumulation, believers must guard their hearts against the deceitfulness of riches. Greed robs people of contentment, peace, and genuine relationship with God and others.

This teaching will reveal the root of greed, its dangers, and practical steps to overcome it through a Christlike mindset of contentment, generosity, and trust in God as the true source of provision.

1. IDENTIFYING THE ROOT OF GREED

Greed often hides behind the desire for success and security.

a) Greed Stems From Discontentment.

When people are never satisfied, greed sets in (Ecclesiastes 5:10).

b) It Is Fueled by Comparison.

Looking at others’ possessions can trigger envy (James 3:16).

c) Fear of Lack Encourages Greed.

When trust in God is weak, people hoard (Matthew 6:31-32).

d) Pride Drives People to Want More.

A proud heart seeks validation through material things (Proverbs 16:18).

Biblical Example: Gehazi’s greed for reward led to leprosy (2 Kings 5:20-27).

2. DANGERS OF A GREEDY HEART

Greed leads to destruction both spiritually and physically.

a) Greed Opens the Door to Sin.

It can lead to theft, lies, and betrayal (Joshua 7:20-21).

b) It Hinders a Relationship with God.

No man can serve God and mammon (Matthew 6:24).

c) Greed Breeds Injustice and Oppression.

It exploits others for personal gain (Proverbs 15:27).

d) It Leads to Spiritual Blindness.

The greedy person is never satisfied or grateful (Luke 12:20-21).

Biblical Example: Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).

3. DEVELOPING A SPIRIT OF CONTENTMENT

Contentment is the antidote to greed.

a) Learn to Be Satisfied in Christ.

True satisfaction comes from relationship with God (Philippians 4:11).

b) Appreciate What You Already Have.

Gratitude eliminates the need for constant pursuit (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

c) Understand That God Supplies Needs.

Trust in His provision reduces the urge to grab more (Philippians 4:19).

d) Live a Simple and Godly Life.

Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6).

Biblical Example: Paul was content in all circumstances, trusting God fully (Philippians 4:12-13).

4. PRACTISING GENEROSITY

Giving breaks the power of greed.

a) Giving Reflects God’s Nature.

God so loved the world that He gave (John 3:16).

b) Giving Builds Compassion.

It shifts focus from self to others (Acts 20:35).

c) Generosity Opens the Door to Blessing.

The liberal soul shall be made fat (Proverbs 11:25).

d) Giving Is an Act of Worship.

It honours God above possessions (Proverbs 3:9).

Biblical Example: The widow of Zarephath gave her last meal and received divine provision (1 Kings 17:8-16).

5. TRUSTING GOD AS YOUR SOURCE

Faith in God ends the chase for material gain.

a) God Knows Your Needs.

He is a faithful provider (Matthew 6:33).

b) Rely on God’s Timing.

Don’t seek shortcuts to wealth (Proverbs 28:20).

c) Rest in God's Promises.

He promised to never leave or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).

d) Avoid the Love of Money.

It is the root of many evils (1 Timothy 6:10).

Biblical Example: Abraham trusted God and refused to take spoils from the king of Sodom (Genesis 14:21-23).

CONCLUSION:

Greed is a dangerous desire that pulls people away from God and into destruction. It promotes selfishness, idolatry, and injustice. However, through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can overcome greed by developing contentment, generosity, and complete trust in God.

As you surrender your desires to God and embrace a life of simplicity and obedience, you will find peace and fulfilment that possessions can never give. Choose to serve God, not mammon.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, deliver me from every spirit of greed.

2. Help me to be content with Your provision.

3. Father, give me a generous heart like Yours.

4. I reject every desire that pulls me away from You.

5. Teach me to trust You as my true source.