Money is Spiritual: Part 3 – Exposing the Spirit of Mammon
"No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." – Matthew 6:24 (ESV)
Money is spiritual. Behind the pursuit of wealth lies an invisible spiritual force called Mammon, the opposing master Jesus warns us about. Mammon is not just money but a spiritual entity that rivals God, competing for our devotion and trust. It promotes idolatry, urging people to place their faith in wealth rather than God’s provision. Mammon feeds pride and self-sufficiency, encouraging a mindset of independence from God. It destroys relationships through greed, selfishness, and fear of lack, opposing generosity by driving hoarding and scarcity thinking: "If I give, I will lose."
Mammon is closely tied to the Babylonian system, described in Revelation 17–18 as a corrupt system of wealth, power, and spiritual rebellion. This system, both ancient and modern, thrives on materialism, consumerism, and exploitation of people and resources. It is a spiritual stronghold that infiltrates our modern world, often symbolized by the bull, a prominent figure in pagan worship and today’s financial markets (e.g., bull markets). This counterfeit system opposes God’s kingdom and biblical justice, leading people to trust in wealth rather than God
To break free from Mammon’s grip, we must first recognize its evil schemes and cultivate generosity. Generosity breaks the power of greed, reminding us that God is our true provider. It shifts our mindset from scarcity to abundance, aligning us with God’s kingdom purposes. True stewardship involves surrendering our wealth to God, trusting Him completely, and following His lead to give and sow into His purpose.
Golden Nugget
Recognize the Spirit of Mammon: Be aware of how it operates and competes for your devotion.
Cultivate Generosity: Break the stronghold of greed and scarcity by giving.
Trust God as Provider: Surrender your finances to Him, knowing all wealth belongs to Him.
Prayer:
Abba father, I acknowledge that You alone are my Master. Expose the spirit of Mammon in my life and help me to trust You completely as my Provider. Teach me to cultivate generosity and to steward the resources for Your kingdom’s purposes. Give me an undivided heart that worships You alone. In Jesus’ name Amen.
