The curse of riches refers to the negative consequences that can arise from having too much wealth or material possessions. It is a concept that suggests that extreme wealth can lead to various problems and challenges in a person's life. One of the main issues associated with the curse of riches is the pressure and stress that comes with managing a large amount of wealth. Having a significant fortune can bring about a whole new set of responsibilities and expectations. It can be challenging to navigate financial decisions and investments, and there may be constant concerns about preserving and growing one's wealth. Another aspect of the curse of riches is the effect it can have on personal relationships.
But let us not forget the treasures we seek are not on this earth, but the ones we lay up in heaven (Matt. 6:20). Real treasures are not those we can hold and see and feel and spend here on earth, but the treasures that we may have when we begin by taking up our cross and following Jesus (cf. Mark 10:21). Those treasures do not fade away, cannot be lost, and are more valuable than any earthly possessions we may accumulate. Do you have those treasures?
As rich as Bill Gates is now and as rich as Andrew Carnegie was in the 1800s and as rich as an Arabian sultan may be, they all died and none will take one thin dime with them into eternity. 10, 11 The mind set on material possessions particularly on riches is one that is set for a fall, for those possessions are not what brings happiness and, as many find out, they always want more.
Another aspect of the curse of riches is the effect it can have on personal relationships. Extreme wealth can create jealousy, greed, and even disloyalty among friends, family members, and acquaintances. People may be attracted to an individual solely for their wealth, leading to superficial relationships and a sense of loneliness or mistrust.
Congo Curse of Riches
I don’t sleep here, even with sleeping pills. I wake up after a few hours, images of the day racing through my head, trying to make sense of all I have witnessed and heard. This morning I got up at 4 am. I just couldn’t stand it anymore. I preferred to get up and busy…
- [email protected] Buckhantz
- November 9, 2009
I don’t sleep here, even with sleeping pills. I wake up after a few hours, images of the day racing through my head, trying to make sense of all I have witnessed and heard. This morning I got up at 4 am. I just couldn’t stand it anymore. I preferred to get up and busy myself with packing to leave for Bukavu. It wasn’t long before Janice and Naama were up also, trying to get pictures of the sunrise—some beauty amidst all this sadness.
As I write this we are on a boat on gorgeous Lake Kivu going between Goma and Bukavu. It is a very comfortable boat showing a Steven Segal movie—just what we all needed, more violence. But this is stupid, mindless “entertainment”. The scenery outside is exquisite. It feels like we could be in some beautiful vacation spot. It is a moment to decompress.
Instead, I talk to Giorgio, Director of Operations for International Medical Corps (IMC) in Eastern Congo. We discuss the complexity of the political situation here. I am trying to make sense of it all.
If the humanitarian situation feels desperate, the political one seems completely impossible to untangle. There are various armed groups that continue to rape and pillage the country. There is the CNDP, former soldiers of the ousted rebel general Nkunda, now members of the Congolese army. Then there is the FDLR, comprised of Rwandan Hutu rebels who escaped into the Congo after the Rwandan genocide. There are also the Maimai, who are local militias created supposedly to protect their communities, but instead have morphed into terrorist groups. And then there is the FARDC, ostensibly government loyalists, but made up a various poorly integrated former rebel groups.
The situation is so complex and goes back so many years. Added to this there are the constantly shifting loyalties and allegiances of the different bordering African countries—Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Angola, Rwanda, and Namibia. These allegiances change depending upon perceived self interest.
The final layer onto which all of this must be laid concerns the minerals which make Congo one of the most natural-resource-rich countries in the world. All of this destabilization leaves different mineral mines in various hands—none of which benefits the people. That is the tragedy here. I am told that 70% of all the mineral resources in the world are here. It is also one of the most beautiful countries in the world. And none of this benefits the people. Many tell us that the situation here is getting worse. A village was burned recently in North Kivu and last week IMC had to evacuate all their staff from Baraka due to fighting in the area. (Although I was told that they are going back today.)
I ask everyone the question of what needs to be done to move towards peace. No one gives me an answer. I come away with the feeling that until someone much smarter than I am can figure out a solution, or the various parties decide that enough is enough and the bloodshed and violence must end, all we can do is try to provide as much help and assistance to the innocent victims of this immoral war as possible.
While we are here we hope to identify programs that not only provide immediate assistance, but ones that help to change the culture of impunity that exists here. Perhaps then the true beauty of Congo will be allowed to flourish.
Sadly, there is no comfort to the one who has gained these material possessions for another reason: the end of the riches � and his own end. Regarding the material possessions, he knows that when he dies he has to pass it on to one who has not worked for it as he has (2:21-23). Knowing this, he finds �his days are sorrowful, and his work burdensome; even in the night his heart takes no rest.� And the rich man himself? If he ever had the word of God in his heart, it will soon be choked out by the cares and riches of this world and he becomes unfruitful (Luke 8:14). Surely this can be a source of discomfort!
Furthermore, the curse of riches can contribute to a loss of purpose or sense of fulfillment. When money is no longer a concern, there may be a lack of motivation to strive for personal or professional goals. Having everything often leads to a feeling of emptiness or boredom, as there are no longer challenges or problems to solve. Health can also be negatively impacted by the curse of riches. Wealthy individuals may have access to excessive indulgences such as unhealthy foods, drugs, or excessive alcohol consumption. This can lead to physical health issues, addiction problems, or even mental health challenges. Lastly, the curse of riches can create a cycle of dependency and entitlement. When one becomes accustomed to a life of luxury and privilege, it can be difficult to adjust to a more modest lifestyle. There may be a sense of entitlement or expectation that others should cater to their needs and desires, which can strain relationships and create a sense of entitlement that is hard to shake off. Overall, while wealth can bring many positive opportunities and experiences, it is essential to recognize the potential pitfalls and challenges that come with extreme riches. The curse of riches reminds us to maintain balance, perspective, and a sense of gratitude in our pursuit of wealth and success..
Reviews for "The Curse of Riches: How the Pursuit of Wealth Can Lead to a Lack of Authenticity"
- Emily - 2 stars - I did not enjoy "Curse of Ricjes" at all. The storyline was confusing and poorly executed. It felt like the director was trying to include too many elements and it ended up being a jumbled mess. The acting was subpar and I couldn't connect with any of the characters. Overall, I found this film to be a waste of time.
- Mike - 1 star - I found "Curse of Ricjes" to be an absolute disaster. The special effects were laughably bad, the dialogue was cheesy, and the plot was nonexistent. I couldn't believe that this movie actually made it to the big screen. It was full of cliches and lacked any originality. Save your money and avoid this trainwreck of a film.
- Jessica - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Curse of Ricjes". The pacing was incredibly slow and it felt like nothing was happening for the majority of the movie. The characters were one-dimensional and the acting was wooden. The supposed "horror" elements were more comical than anything. I was hoping for a thrilling experience, but instead, I left the theater feeling bored and unimpressed.
- Mark - 3 stars - "Curse of Ricjes" had potential, but it fell short in many areas. The story was intriguing, but the execution was lackluster. The pacing was off, with some scenes dragging on for too long while others were rushed. The acting was decent, but there were moments of overacting that took me out of the film. Overall, it had its moments, but it failed to deliver on its promise of being a truly chilling horror movie.