Artist: Trip Lee
Song: Cash or Christ
Album: If They Only Knew

Cash or Christ, which is it going to be? That's the question I want to ask today, especially for those who live in America and are trying to be both a Christian and live the American dream. I will preface this by saying that there is absolutely nothing wrong with money in and of itself because it is a required commodity to survive in the world's economy. I am also not saying that it is wrong to be rich because for some people the Lord has given them the means to acquire their wealth. What I am speaking of is a heart issue and looking at where our focus, as Christians, is; are we more concerned with the American Dream or the Great Commission?

Living in the world, we cannot help but to have the desire to fulfill the American dream: making lots of money, owning a big house & nice car, getting married, having 2.5 kids, and a dog. That is emblazoned in our minds early in our childhood and society encourages us to fulfill these selfish desires. Just look at hip-hop culture today; it's all about the women, ice, and rims. Get all that you can as fast as you can. This kind of lifestyle is in great contrast in how the Scriptures instruct us to live. Let's go to the Word and see what it has to say.

If we take a look at Jesus' words in Matthew 6:19-24, we will find Him instructing the multitude to not concern themselves with earthly treasures, since they will eventually fade away, but to lay up treasures in heaven. Furthermore, Jesus also tells them that wherever their treasure is, that is where their heart will be also. In other words, if your drive is all about getting platinum chains & watches and a Cadillac with 26" rims, then your heart is going to be with those things. If you're career driven, then that's where your heart and desire is going to be. Inevitably, you will make these things and desires into a god that will take the place of God in your heart. Jesus is saying here that we need to be more concerned with the work of the ministry and getting people into relationship with God because the treasures that come along with doing that will be eternal and never fade away. Sure, the work is gutter, but the fulfillment that comes from leading others to Christ and discipling them is much greater than being a millionaire with a house on the hills. There are plenty of people with money that can tell you that they are still empty (and it's because they don't have Christ and greater purpose in their lives).

Now, this is not to say that you shouldn't desire money or a great career; those are very good things to strive for. The problem lies in making those desires your primary focus and allowing them to become gods in your life. Don't be so consumed with getting those things that you lay aside nurturing your relationship with God and fulfilling the Great Commission. Jesus said that you cannot serve both cash and Christ, but you have to pick one. Which is it for you? Just remember that these earthly goods will eventually fade away, but we have an eternal life to live after we leave here, and there are treasures to be had there as well. Forget the cash and serve Christ, and fulfill the Great Commission.