I have seen a grievous evil under the sun: wealth hoarded to the harm of its owners. Ecclesiastes 5:13
“Get rich, if you will–you take great risks. But Christianity does not say to any man, “You must be worth only so much, extend your business only so far.” It says, “Use your riches for the glory of God.” If they once usurp His place, woe to you!”
Herrick Johnson (1832-1913) Presbyterian clergyman in Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers, compiled by Josiah Hotchkiss Gilbert (New York: Wilbur B. Ketcham, 1895) 521.
How do riches usurp the place of God? Let’s learn from Solomon (and Johnson). When we hoard them rather than putting them in play in our business or through our giving, we end up like the rich fool.
But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ Luke 12:20