There’s an interesting story of a renowned older minister of the gospel in this country. Due to his old age, he could not account for most gifts that people brought to him. He had associates who would corner the gifts. Their excuse was, “Oga does not need it. He would not know who brings what.” This is the Greed of Gehazi.

Friend, God is raising a new breed without greed. Greed has grounded many destinies than most other evils. Until you conquer greed, you cannot go far with God. Jesus conquered greed; He would not “command this stone to be made bread.” God was enough for Him (Luke 4:3-4). The spirit of Gehazi is the spirit of greed. Not too many people can handle influence and affluence (2 Kings 5:20-27).

Gehazi was not necessarily a bad person, he was just a victim of greed. He did not allow God to properly work on him before he got exposed to influence and affluence. One reason why God delays some blessings in our lives is to mature us so we can handle the intricacies that come with it. David was a man who could handle material wealth; He would not allow the spoils of war to spoil his destiny with God (1 Samuel 30:20-26).

Deal with your greed. See people and prosperity as divine entrustment (Matthew 9:36, 1 Timothy 6:17-19). Gluttony is one of the works of the flesh (Proverbs 23:1-2, Ecclesiastes 2:9-11, Romans 16:18, Galatians 5:21). Heed Jesus’ counsel to “beware of covetousness…” (Luke 12:15). See people beyond money or what you get from them. See the purpose of God, not your personal aggrandizement.

One of the ways to conquer greed is to be a sacrificial giver. Intentionally part with what you have, particularly when it is most difficult (Matthew 19:21-22). What you cannot give you do not truly possess, it possesses you. There is wealth beyond money. Your attitude towards money and material things would determine if you would command the true riches (Luke 16:11).

“Let your conversation be without covetousness and be content with what you have…” (Hebrews 13:5). While complacency makes a man not to desire better things in God, contentment is enjoying where you are on the road to where you are going. Contentment is the secret to peace. It is the key to abundance. It is the gateway to having power with God and with men (Genesis 14:14-24).

© ‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria