Good Money

Here's something you won't hear a lot of Generation Xers admit: hip-hop and rap music encouraged many people to admonish (and in some instances covet) poverty.  While the world has probably enjoyed a good rags to riches story since the beginning of economics, hip-hop culture has always given more credence to the artist who's struggled financially just before or while making his or her first major product.  Music critics perceive the artist is hungrier for success.  Suburban kids emulate the speech and the dress associated with the rappers [alleged] struggle.  But when the artist "makes it", when he's [allegedly] achieved the financial goals that could equip him or her to care for responsibilities that were neglected in the past, that artist soon is deemed less valid in his art than the new poor kid....probably because it is assumed, sometimes through the artists' deliberate portrayal, that the once starving rapper is now a money-greedy pig.

Well, isn't the point of rap music, or any other business to make money?  Nope, and that familiar statement is based on the tunnel vision that plagues many small business today.  Contrarily, business are designed to create opportunities...opportunities for employment, financial improvement, and to respond to needs and problems.  Unfortunately some business owners, small and large alike, interpret the fruits of labor as chances to horde for themselves much of what was made from the hard work.  So although the business made money, only a few people greatly benefited from the revenue; while even more received just enough to push on.  But if these organizations or people, instead of challenging themselves just to see if they can achieve a higher number than the previous fiscal year, would view their work more in terms of distribution, then poverty and the mentality that accompany it would be properly addressed.

Now don't start pointing your finger at whatever company you've got issues with; this is all about us as individuals...as we all are businesses.  The United States government informs it's citizens of their corporate status soon after birth with the issuance of the tax monitor....uh....social security number.  The same could be said when referring to a relationship with Christ, as He too sees you as a business...one built to distribute resources (Acts 1:8).  Remember, along with Salvation, the access to eternal riches is what you received when accepting Christ as your personal Savior.  And these riches aren't limited to money, but they are rooted in a timeless God who's peace surpasses all financial wisdom (Philippians 4:7), and that can only be purchased through the Blood of Jesus.  Additionally, while we have a tendency to allow our wallets, purses, and bank statements to lead our giving; it should be God as the Head of our lives to drive those decisions.  Because the fact is regardless of what tax bracket you're in, as a Believer you have resources that can't be bought; yet many around you desperately need them.  Why not share the wealth?

Through Jesus Christ, your talents, skills, experience, education, and money are just what someone needs to save their broken life.  You provide the service of leading someone to ultimate healing and restoration.  Don't sit on it...unless...that is...you don't believe you've received those resources for yourself first.

Peace