Read Amos 6:1-7

The Danger of Indifference

Two of the great dangers of wealth are the temptation to focus solely upon one’s own comfort with no regard to those who are less fortunate, and to feel so comfortable that one fails to see his own great spiritual need. The people “who are at ease in Zion” during Amos’ day failed to see the needs of others. The prophet lamented that they were “not grieved for the affliction of Joseph” (Amos 6:6).

We are stewards of God’s rich blessings, which include financial blessings. The apostle Paul wrote, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). We need to be concerned for the well-being of our brethren. “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).

Some Christians in the first century endured severe hardships, and several congregations stepped up to help ease their financial strain. Paul wrote about the generosity of the churches of Macedonia who “according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing” to give to those in need (2 Corinthians 8:1-6). We must not fall into the trap of feeling indifferent to the needs of those around us, especially our brethren.

The second danger of indifference is failing to see one’s own great spiritual need. Too many believe that they achieved everything on their own without any assistance from others, especially God. With such an attitude, it is very difficult to accept the fact that God Himself is needed. The lukewarm church in Laodicea fell into this murky mindset. Christ warned, “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see” (Revelation 3:17-18).

Are you taking care of those around you as opportunities arise? Are you taking care of yourself spiritually? Do not become indifferent to either the physical needs of others or the spiritual needs of yourself.