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When asked to settle an inheritance issue between two brothers, Jesus refused to perform this common function of rabbis. Instead, he told a story that zeroed in on what was more important: the issue of the heart.

Luke 12:13-21

1. Jesus said (v. 15), "Real life is not measured by how much we own." How is it measured?
   
   
2. In this parable, do you think Jesus was criticizing the wealthy farmer for his success?
   
   
3. Why do you think God called the farmer a fool? Was it greed (v.15)? Was it a lack of concern for helping others? Was it both?
   
   
4. What does this parable say about the limits and the source of true security?
   
   
5. Jesus said (v. 21) it's misguided to concentrate on accumulating wealth while neglecting other vital relationships. How do we cultivate a rich relationship with God? What other relationships are ultimately more important than physical comfort and security?
   
   

Ask God to help you keep work from getting in the way of your relationship with him and others.

Luke 12:13-21

13 Then someone called from the crowd, "Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father's estate with me." 14Jesus replied, "Friend, who made me a judge over you to decide such things as that?" 15Then he said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own."

16 You say, "I am allowed to do anything"—but not everything is good for you. And even though "I am allowed to do anything," I must not become a slave to anything. 17He said to himself, 'What should I do? I don't have room for all my crops.' 18Then he said, 'I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods.

19 And I'll sit back and say to myself, "My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!"' 20"But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?' 21"Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God."

Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

You are honored, Lord, when I work hard, rest well, and nourish my relationship with You, family, and friends. Help me strike the right balance.

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