Read Revelation 3:14–22
Poor people tend to be religious people. Conversely, rich people tend to be non-religious. While this is a general pattern and not an absolute rule, it is not hard to imagine why. Wealthy, industrialized, computer-driven nations, for which grain comes in loaves and beef comes in packages, have a much easier time developing a false sense of self-reliance. Who needs God when you have an iPhone, a car, and a grocery store? Contrast that with the experience of most people for most of history. If they ate (and sometimes that was a big “if”), it was because a few months earlier they planted seeds or their livestock gave birth—and until they ate, they hoped (and prayed) everything would go right. That process encourages and requires a much greater dependence on God’s provision than just adding extra firm tofu to your Amazon Fresh cart and hitting “Order Now.” The modern process encourages people to say, “I have become wealthy and need nothing.” So, for those who find themselves in the top 1% of the world economy (if you’re reading this, that’s you!), how can we guard against the self-reliance the Laodiceans fell into? Focus on Jesus and how He provides. Rather than spending on the vanities which leave us pitiful, blind, and naked, seek the gold, clothing, and ointment Jesus gives. Rather than being zealous for the passing fads of the day, be zealous for right standing in God’s eyes, and repent of sin. Rather than listening to the cacophony of talking heads who control you by fear and manipulation, listen to the voice of the One who knocks, and open the door.
