18 Sep 94 - Al Gilbert Sermon
5 examples of people confused about their possessions
1. Luke 12:16 - The prosperous Farmer; v21 "NOT rich toward God"
2. Luke 18:18 - Rich Young Ruler
	The key to Jesus's command was to "come follow ME" and the riches were keeping him back; living good, even voluntary poverty is NOT ENOUGH! The KEY is "COME FOLLOW ME!"
3. Acts 5:1ff - Annanias and Sapphira - cheating God to get peoples praise;
4. Acts 8:9 - Simon the Magician - thought he could BUY God's power, position
	God doesn't NEED your money - WE NEED to GIVE it, but HE doesn't >need< to >recieve< it!
5. Matt 6:1ff - Pharisaical living - living for other peoples praise; 

So what ARE God's purposes for possessions? 
1. To provide daily bread - to meet our >dailey< needs - which builds up our dependence and gratitude towards Him
2. To give us a sense of direction - to help us to see the "yes" or "no"  in some projects, the >timing< of His provisions
3. To demonstrate His POWER - His ability to work His will

There is MAN'S honor and praise and then there is GOD'S praise and honor. I can't seek them BOTH;