Devotionals by Raul Ries

TUESDAY August 4, 2026

Corrupted Riches

Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days.
James 5:2-3

James gave a strong exhortation toward those who were covetous. He knew it was very easy for people to trust in their finances instead of trusting in the Lord. What would happen if everything was taken away from them? James described how clothing can be moth-eaten, and riches can corrode––they can all perish. Riches are not lasting. People can easily say they believe in God, but when there is no money in the bank, their faith is tested.

What are you going to do when you do not have any money in the bank to pay your bills? What will happen when you cannot buy bread and milk? I have been there! That is when you have to pray and depend on God. These are very good lessons to learn.

In difficult times, God has taught me to be a good steward of our finances. My philosophy is, “If you cannot afford it, do not buy it.” It is important to be a good steward and learn how to use your money wisely. I find most people have too much credit card debt. Seriously, do not get into bondage to your credit cards. If you use a credit card, be wise and pay back any amount spent that same month; that way you avoid paying high interest.

Also, learn to be a giving person. Know that you can never outgive God! Biblically, we need to give to God what belongs to God. When offered sacrificially, your giving becomes an act of obedience and love toward God. Your motives for giving to the Lord should never be to expect more in return. Remember, give to God cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7).

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
~Matthew 6:19-21~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!