The wings of envy fly into every realm of our being, consuming us like poison if we let it.

The tentacles of envy pierce through our souls in a hundred different directions.

Most people think of finances when they picture the beast called Envy. They compare themselves with others, believing a fatter net worth would guarantee happiness.

Yet often this is a perceived reality – not truth.

Why do I say perceived?

 

Years ago, my parents taught me that you can’t evaluate peoples’ financial status’ by their homes, styles of clothing or the cars they drive.

In the book, The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy, Thomas J. Stanley writes about millionaires looking nothing like most people expect.

They tend to live frugally and avoid lavish spending on vehicles, homes, clothing and jewelry.

In other words, it’s the guy or gal with the practical, older car – not the new Mercedes who drips of money.

And guess what? Those dressed like “rich people” tend to carry more debt. They aren’t wealthy, as most would presume.

Truth is an interesting animal. Often not as our brains assume.

Many think the golden door of wealth is “the answer,” no matter the question.

They imagine dollars would fill the Swiss cheese holes in their hearts.

Yet the wealthy often struggle with depression.

They expect money to solve their problems and then feel disappointed when they learn they can’t fill in the voids of their hearts with dollars.

Centuries ago, the wealthiest, wisest man who had ever lived sought contentment in women, knowledge and projects.

Yet all left him feeling empty. Just a shell of a man.

In Ecclesiastes, Solomon realized toward the end of the book that the only lasting joy and meaning comes through a relationship with God.

When we seek contentment though money, power, and projects, our souls spin in a dizzying whirlwind of disappointment.

Solomon attempted to fill the void of vast emptiness with works and physical relationships.

But the works were for himself, and not for the good of others. No wonder happiness slipped through his essence like sand spilling through his fingers.

Solomon’s sense of satisfaction spun into a selfish, tangled web of discouragement because he chose to spend his energy and wealth for selfish gain.

The only satisfaction of lasting value results from walking wholeheartedly with the one who created us.

All the other “gold” is actually spray painted tin foil.

The beauty fades, and despair drags us into the deep pit of meaninglessness.

Exchange your meaninglessness for a real, resounding relationship with the reason for Easter. Jesus is the reason for life, hope, and love.

Forbes: Depression in the Wealthy