Greed Takes Two Very Different Forms: Wealth and Welfare

“I have never understood why it is ‘greed’ to want to keep the money you have earned but not greed to want to take somebody else's money.” Thomas Sowell  

Greed takes several forms: Some are greedy to accumulate wealth and possessions. Some are lazy and expect others to provide for them.

Thomas Sowell is an African American, born in 1930, raised in poverty in the Harlem ghetto. However, he went on to earn multiple degrees including a PhD in economics. At 95, he’s still a well-respected, award-winning economist having held university and government positions and authored 45 books.

We live in a culture where some people claim they are victims of circumstances, demanding food, clothing, and housing without attempting to support themselves. In addition, many adult children raised by hard-working parents expect their parents to make their lives easy for them.

God says:

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” Colossians 3:23

“The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” 2 Thessalonians 3:10

 And God gives this strong warning: “Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

Important aspects of our character are revealed in our attitude toward work, money, and possessions (Matthew 6:24), and also in our ability to recognize true treasure (Matthew 6:19 and Matthew 12:34).

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For more biblical insights see 6 Biblical Principles About Money & Possessions and The Poison of Entitlement.

Note: I would also add that there was a time when parents understood the importance of a mother being in her home, and working outside the home was only done during school hours or when absolutely necessary. Now, most women work outside their homes and many couples are choosing to remain childless because children would interfere with their greed for money, position, and leisure.

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” 1 john 2:15-17

Sowell quote source