Beginning
with an autobiographical story, many of us can identify with, Reverend Hamilton
looks prophetically upon the culture of “affluenza” and “credit-it is” the US
finds its citizens living in. For
Hamilton, a deeper problem lies beneath:
“Inside us there is a brokenness;
the Bible calls it sin. Our souls were
created in the image of God, but they have been distorted. We were meant to desire God, but we have
turned that desire toward possessions.”
(pg. 21)
Believers
need to think about and plan out the financial sphere of their lives. Its foundation is the answer to the question,
“What is your life purpose?”
US society
calls us to consume. Hamilton asks,
“What does God call you to do?”
Along
with helpful practical advice on financial planning, the author also seeks to
remind us of the theological value that undergirds the life of a “contented”
Christian. Can, we Christians, be
defined by our generosity? Our giving?
“When God created humankind, God
designed us to be generous. God created
us with the willingness to give to God and to others.” (pg. 76)
Unfortunately
we are strongly “tempted to keep” for ourselves. Fear and selfishness drive our actions. Hamilton reminds us that we have been given a
gift – our lives. The One who gave it to
us, owns all of it.
“You didn’t bring any of it with
you when you came into the world and you won’t take any of it with you when you
leave.” (pg. 79)
Tell them to do good, to be rich in
the good things they do, to be generous, and to share with others. When they do
these things, they will save a treasure for themselves that is a good
foundation for the future. That way they can take hold of what is truly
life. I Timothy 6:18-19
In Enough, with the simple and clear understanding which Adam Hamilton
writes on the how’s and why’s of a Christian’s fiscal life, we too can grab
ahold of “what is truly life” and not the mere shadow of living. We come to realize that for most of our
lives, we are not needy, but we are “wanty.”
Knowing the difference is the beginning of purpose – God’s purpose for
your life.
If you would like your own free copy of Enough by Adam Hamilton, send us an email to info@umcdevelopmentcenter.org with your request, name and mailing address. Supplies are limited.
