“There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself, who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed of her divine majesty.” (Acts 19:27)
If Artemis was so majestic, why didn’t she defend herself against Paul and his statement, “Gods made by human hands are no gods at all?” She was an object without power whom humans created and placed on a throne.
Demetrius’s peers considered worshiping Artemis to be noble, so he claimed to worship her when it was obvious money was on his throne.
There’s danger we’ll also lose our good name if we worship money. Aren’t we sometimes like Demetrius? Do we want a bigger home, a nicer car, more money, or a closer relationship with God?
God doesn’t want us to be poor and struggle. Jesus told his disciples. “Do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ Or ‘What shall we wear.’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:31-33)
Father, I praise You for Your perfect will. Help me focus on seeking You and fulfilling the goals of Your will. Let me be satisfied and fulfilled with the gifts You give me. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.