Using Wealth as a Tool
Often times in American society we feel apprehensive when it comes to talking about our money and wealth. Some may feel as though wealth is something to be ashamed of, especially when we see suffering and calamities all over the world. But as we have learned from the Writings, wealth is not something that should make us uncomfortable, embarrassed or even less spiritual.
“Wealth is praiseworthy in the highest degree, if it is acquired by an individual's own efforts and the grace of God, in commerce, agriculture, art and industry, and if it be expended for philanthropic purposes.
If, on the other hand, it is expended for the promotion of knowledge, the founding of elementary and other schools, the encouragement of art and industry, the training of orphans and the poor -- in brief, if it is dedicated to the welfare of society -- its possessor will stand out before God and man as the most excellent of all who live on earth and will be accounted as one of the people of paradise.”
(Abdu'l-Baha, The Secret of Divine Civilization, p. 24)
It is what we decide to do with our finances that will in turn reveal our true characters. If we follow our hearts and expend a portion of our wealth in efforts to help our fellow man, then not only are we doing good for others but also good for our own souls. For that reason, if we find ourselves blessed with wealth, let us not let it become a hindrance but instead a tool to help us to achieve a better world.
“Well is it then with him, who, being rich, is not hindered by his riches from the eternal kingdom, nor deprived by them of imperishable dominion. By the Most Great Name! The splendor of such a wealthy man shall illuminate the dwellers of heaven even as the sun enlightens the people of the earth!”
(Baha’u’llah, Hidden Words, Persian no. 53)
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