SEPTEMBER 20: “THE TRAP OF NEVER ENOUGH”

In a discipleship class some time ago, we had a conversation about savings. During the discussion, a simple but striking truth came up: with every increase in income, responsibilities and desires tend to increase as well.

For example, someone earning ₦200,000 may live in a certain way and have a particular lifestyle. However, when that same person begins to earn ₦1,000,000, their lifestyle often shifts. Not because they are forced to, but because their appetite changes. Better/upgraded choices and higher expectations slowly become the norm. That is where Ecclesiastes becomes very real.

Solomon calls it meaningless, not because money is useless, but because it never truly satisfies the human heart. The more we get, the more we want. The cycle continues.

This, therefore raises an important question: does this mean we should not work or pursue growth? Absolutely not.

It means our pursuit must be anchored in something higher than accumulation. When our lives are aligned with God, our direction is guided. Our decisions are shaped. Even our opportunities are ordered. God does not just provide needs; He leads into purpose-filled work and meaningful impact.

Someone shared the story of a woman who had been selling donuts at the beginning of their street since childhood. One person saw her story and interpreted it as stagnation. Another perspective challenged that view: what if she found fulfillment in that work? What if her life was not measured by expansion but by faithfulness? What if purpose for her, was not about scale, but meaning?

In the end, the real measure of life is not just wealth accumulation, but alignment. Are we fulfilled? Are we living in purpose? Are lives around us being impacted positively?

PRAYER: Lord, grant me true contentment. Let my desires be anchored in your will, Amen.