Paul's Economics Lesson
Theme of the Week: What Is Your Treasure?
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. I have discarded everything else (Philippians 3:8). Bonus Reading: Philippians 3:7-9a
In economics, an opportunity cost is the value of an opportunity passed up. For example, if your job pays $30 per hour but you could get a job that would pay $45 per hour for the same effort, then you are giving up (it's costing you) $15 per hour to work for your current employer. That's your opportunity cost.
In [today's Key Bible Verse and Bonus Reading] Paul uses an opportunity-cost argument. But he's talking about God's economy which, as Jesus presented dramatically in the Sermon on the Mount, values both resources and rewards very differently.
I'm in the middle of a job search and am fortunate to have a choice between two good options. One means more money, prestige, and the potential for more of both in the future. But it also means a more single-minded focus on my career for the next few years. The other option would still meet my material needs but may well produce a greater gain according to God's value. As I consider Paul's lesson in economics, I pray that God will reveal to me his greater value.
Remember, there's an opportunity cost to pursuing the benefits of this world.
—Randy Raggio in Devotional Ventures
My Response: Is God's economy being short-changed in my life? What transfers are needed?
Thought to Apply: Try not to become a man of success but rather a man of value. —Albert Einstein (physicist)
Adapted from When You've Been Wronged (Moody, 2007) by permission.
Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
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Show me, Lord, how to elbow this world's treasures aside with the treasures of Your kingdom.
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