I went overseas once on a mission trip and I do hope to again. Recently it occurred to me that having extra money greatly interferes with the missionary work that the Lord is involved with. Because it fools wealthy Christians into thinking God wants them to throw their money around as a missionary.

Sometimes I wish there were a visible display of spiritual health and prosperity instead of money and nice buildings.

If there were then I’m not sure so many rich people would be the ones traveling overseas and seen as the Christians who should have authority and credibility.

I think some 3rd world Christians who don’t always have enough to even eat and who are being harassed, abused, and pursued ought to be the ones coming here. And telling us to take our “deceitful riches” elsewhere to deceive someone else.

If all we want to do is help the poor with our money just send cash via Western Union to individuals or donate to a company or charity overseas rather than making it about ourselves.

“But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you.”

Acts 8:20-22 ESV