LORD OF THE HOARD By: Major Frank Materu

Key Scripture: Matthew 6:19-21 - "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

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Introduction

Throughout history, people have accumulated wealth, possessions, and resources either for survival or self-indulgence. The concept of hoarding, as seen in the Bible, is not inherently evil when done in obedience to God’s direction. However, when hoarding becomes an act of greed and self-sufficiency without acknowledging God’s sovereignty, it leads to spiritual poverty and condemnation. The real question is, who is the Lord over the hoard that you possess? Is it God who directs you in righteousness, or is it greed, selfish ambition, and materialism that rule over your heart? This article explores the biblical perspective on wealth, possessions, and the danger of serving riches rather than God.

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The Purpose of Storing in Times of Need

Genesis 41:34-36 - "Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance. They should collect all the food of these good years that are coming and store up the grain under the authority of Pharaoh, to be kept in the cities for food. This food should be held in reserve for the country, to be used during the seven years of famine that will come upon Egypt, so that the country may not be ruined by the famine."

There are moments when God instructs His people to store up resources for future use. Joseph’s leadership in Egypt exemplifies the wisdom of preparing for tough times. God gave Pharaoh a prophetic dream, which Joseph interpreted, leading to the accumulation of food during seven years of plenty. This hoarding was not for selfish gain but for the survival of nations.

However, not all accumulation is under divine guidance. Some people store wealth only for themselves, ignoring God’s instructions to be generous and mindful of the needy.

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The Sin of Selfish Hoarding

Luke 12:16-21 - "Then he told them a parable: ‘The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’ Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. And I’ll say to myself, ‘You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God."

The parable of the rich fool teaches that wealth accumulated solely for personal comfort and pride is meaningless before God. This man trusted in his material possessions rather than in God, failing to acknowledge that life itself is fleeting and uncertain.

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Hoarding at the Expense of Others

Proverbs 11:26 - "People curse the one who hoards grain, but they pray God’s blessing on the one who is willing to sell."

There are those who amass wealth at the expense of others, waiting for the right opportunity to sell at exorbitant prices, exploiting the desperate. These individuals, rather than being stewards of God’s blessings, become oppressors of the poor. Such behavior incurs divine judgment rather than favor.

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Surrendering Wealth to God's Control

1 Timothy 6:17-19 - "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way, they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life."

We are called to hold our wealth with open hands, allowing God to guide its use for His glory. Those who are blessed with abundance should not live in self-indulgence but should invest in eternal treasures through acts of kindness, generosity, and faithfulness.

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Summary

The accumulation of wealth is not inherently sinful, but its purpose and control determine whether it becomes a blessing or a curse. When we hoard out of greed, pride, and self-sufficiency, we distance ourselves from God’s will. However, when we store and use resources under His guidance, we contribute to His kingdom and experience true fulfillment.

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Conclusion

True riches are not found in the abundance of possessions but in a heart submitted to God’s will. The world promotes materialism, yet God calls us to trust Him, knowing that He is the ultimate provider. Wealth should be a tool for good, not an idol that replaces God in our hearts.

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Call to Action

Ask yourself today: Who is the Lord of the hoard in my life? Are you storing up treasures on earth that will perish, or are you investing in heavenly treasures? Commit to surrendering your wealth and possessions to God, seeking His guidance in all things.

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Final Word of Encouragement

Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

When you prioritize God’s kingdom, He will provide all your needs. Trust Him with your resources, and He will bless you abundantly.

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Prayer of Salvation

Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I confess my sins before You and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again for my salvation. Today, I surrender my life to You. Be my Lord and Savior, and help me to live according to Your will. Thank You for Your love and mercy. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen