Things That Are Better

Than Money
by

John Avanzini

Harrison House
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Copyright © 1995 by International Faith Center, Inc.,
P.O. Box 917001, Fort Worth, Texas 76117-9001.
Printed in the United States of America.
All rights reserved under International Copyright Law. Contents and/or
cover may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form without
the express written consent of the publisher.

Things That Are Better Than Money

ISBN: 0-89274-781-1

First Printing: 250,000 copies

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the
King James Version of the Bible.

Verses marked Amplified are Scripture taken from THE AMPLIFIED

BIBLE, Old Testament copyright © 1965, 1987 by The Zondervan
Corporation. The Amplified New Testament copyright© 1958,1987 by
The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.

For emphasis, the author has placed selected words from the Bible
quotations in italics.

Harrison House
P.O. Box 35035
Tulsa, OK 74153
 Contents
Foreword.....................................................................................5
1 Things Better Than Money.......................................................7
2 Your Good Name...................................................................13
3 A Good Spouse.......................................................................19
4 The Word of God...................................................................25
5 Understanding........................................................................29
6 Being the Temple of God.......................................................35
7 The Trying of Your Faith.......................................................41
8 Strategic Relationships...........................................................47
9 The Reproach of Christ..........................................................55
10 Worshiping the True and Living God...................................63
11 Your Eternal Soul.................................................................69
12 The Precious Blood of Jesus................................................73
13 The Anointing......................................................................79
14 A Final Word........................................................................85
 Foreword
The timing of a book's release is as important as its
subject. This book by John Avanzini comes at exactly the
right time.
I believe the message of faith and prosperity that is in
the Church today has been sent by God, because the cost of
taking the gospel into all the world is higher in our day than
anyone could have ever imagined. No longer are we simply
raising a few thousand dollars to purchase some pews and
an organ. The Church now faces the necessity of raising
millions and millions of dollars to purchase the high-tech
communication equipment required for today's mass
evangelism.
Add to this the fact that the doors of almost every
nation on earth are now open to the gospel, and you will
find that millions of dollars will not be enough. It will take
billions.
Having bought and paid for nearly 500 television
stations, Trinity Broadcasting Network understands just
how important the message of biblical economics is to the
Body of Christ. The saints of God must prosper financially
if they are to meet this challenge. Jan and I thank God for
the men and women who faithfully teach the biblical
message of seed time and harvest. We know it has not been
easy for them, for they have been opposed by vicious, self-
appointed critics who have openly slandered them,
misrepresenting to the Body of Christ what these men and
women of God are actually teaching. They have wrongfully
accused them of teaching that the Bible primarily talks

5
 Things That Are Better Than Money

about money and getting more money. I can personally

attest to the fact that teachers of faith do not believe money
is the most important thing the Bible teaches.
This book comes as a blessing to all of those who
believe the Bible teaches abundance through faith in God's
Word. It comes at exactly the right time to set the record
straight, for John Avanzini writes of the many things God's
Word openly proclaims to be more valuable than mere
money.
In closing, I must go one step further and say that after
reading the truths so simply stated in Things That Are
Better Than Money, I came to the same conclusion that Bro.
John did. As wonderful and glorious as everything
mentioned in this book might be, it still takes money to get
its message out to the lost and dying of this world.
The Apostle Paul asked this simple question: "... how
shall they preach except they be sent? ..." (Romans
10:15).
The wisest man who ever lived answered this question
long before Paul asked it. King Solomon said, "... money
answers all things" (Ecclesiastes 10:19).
Paul F. Crouch, President
Trinity Broadcasting Network

6
 1
1 Things Better Than Money
... Thy money perish with thee ...
Acts 8:20

For over eighteen years, I have dedicated the major

portion of my life to teaching biblical economics. During
this time I have heard much criticism from those who don't
fully understand my teaching. One thing these people say is
that I overemphasize the importance of money.
Now please notice they never accuse the leading
evangelists of overemphasizing salvation. Neither do they
say the teachers of prophecy have too much to say about the
Second Coming.
If they would only think, people would understand why
I have so much to say about money. The reason is that my
boss (God the Father) has assigned me the job of
specializing in biblical economics. Since the subject of
biblical economics deals primarily with what the Bible says
about finances, it only stands to reason that I would have
much to say about money!
Just as it would be impossible for the evangelist to
preach without primarily explaining that Jesus saves, it
would be impossible for me to teach biblical economics
without constantly mentioning money.

Satan Is a Bible Student

There is a definite reason for opposition to the message

7
 Things That Are Better Than Money

of prosperity in the Body of Christ. Satan knows a rich

Church would be much more believable to a lost and dying
world than a poor Church. Please note that this statement is
not a mere opinion of mine. It is based in biblical fact. The
passage of Scripture I am about to share with you
thoroughly supports the statement. However, strange as it
may seem, most Christians don't even know it exists.
This wisdom have I seen also under the sun, and it
seemed great unto me:
There was a little city, and few men within it; and
there came a great king against it, and besieged it, and
built great bulwarks against it:
Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by
his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered
that same poor man.
Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength:
nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his
words are not heard.
Ecclesiastes 9:13-16

Yes, you are reading correctly. The Scripture boldly

states that no one listens to poor people. I am convinced
that when he saw these verses, the devil immediately
launched an all-out campaign to bring the doctrine of
insufficiency into the Church. The devil knew if men taught
God's Word of abundance without opposition, prosperity
would quickly come to God's children. He also knew that as
soon as prosperity came, the Church would be able to fund
world evangelism properly. Then everyone would hear a
clear witness of the gospel, and multitudes would be saved.
As soon as he learned that no one listens to poor people, the
devil began to replace the truth of God's abundant supply
with the religious tradition of barely getting by.

Ignorance Is Expensive

8
 Things Better Than Money

It is clear that the Church has paid absolutely no

attention to the verse that says no one listens to poor
people. Why, it's as if the Bible had never even brought
forth these words. Instead, just the opposite is true, for there
is a church-wide acceptance of the erroneous virtues of
shortage and insufficiency. In fact, it goes beyond just
accepting the message of insufficiency and poverty. There
is organized opposition to the biblically correct message of
abundance and prosperity. It seems impossible, but this
blindness goes even deeper. The Church has actually
formed special, elite, ecclesiastical orders of priests and
preachers who take firm vows of poverty. They sincerely
believe that taking this unscriptural position will make
them and their message more believable.
Oh, Church! When will we wake up from this delusion
of the devil? Solomon didn't say everyone listens to the
poor man's wisdom. He clearly said "... the poor man's
wisdom is ... not heard" (Ecclesiastes 9:16).
To give you a small idea of how firmly entrenched the
erroneous doctrine of insufficiency is, hear this statistic. I
have been teaching biblical economics for almost twenty
years. God has given me many breakthroughs—revelations
such as the wealth of the wicked that is laid up for the just,
and the truth about the debt-canceling power of God. A
sizable part of the Church is now accepting both of these
truths. However, when it comes to the message of
abundance—I mean real abundance, sufficiency to the point
that you would have "... all things that pertain unto life
and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3), and that you would want for
absolutely nothing (Psalm 34:10)—sad to say, everyone
except the strongest believer in the message of faith, draws
back. Instead of the Church using Ecclesiastes 9:16 on the
devil, the devil is using it on the Church.

9
 Things That Are Better Than Money

The Power of Misinformation

There is a powerful weapon of warfare. It's a weapon
that every successful army throughout history has used. It's
called "misinformation."
Satan is using this powerful weapon on the Church of
our day, and it is causing destruction in the lives of many of
God's children. There is a specific verse of Scripture that
can explain this mess. It comes as a word of warning from
our God.
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge ....
Hosea 4:6

The misinformation the devil puts out about Scripture

thrives where people lack knowledge of God's Word.

Why Traditions Prevail

The main reason unscriptural traditions about poverty
remain in the Church is that the children of God don't study
their Bibles enough to recognize misinformation when they
hear it. If we would only do as the Scripture teaches and
study to show ourselves approved, the Church of our day
would not be standing before a dying world at the end of
time, empty-handed.
Hear this statement and hear it well. We must get back
to the study of God's Word.
Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman
that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of
truth.
2 Timothy 2:15

Victory Is Coming
Please don't despair! Victory is on the horizon, for the

10
 Things Better Than Money

Bible says the end of men's traditions is now at hand.

Simon Peter prophesied that restoration would come just
before our Lord returns. Hear the bold promise he made to
those of us who have the privilege of living at the end of
the age.
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins
may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall
come from the presence of the Lord;
And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was
preached unto you:
Whom the heaven must receive until the times of
restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the
mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
Acts 3:19-21

What a wonderful promise! The apostle says restoration

is coming to the Church in the last days. Here is the best
part. This promise is for us, for we are those saints who live
in the last days of time.

Better Than Money

The Bible is, without a doubt, the most complete book
in existence. It deals with marriage, rearing children,
honesty, rebellion, prophecy, salvation, heaven, and hell, as
well as many other subjects. Upon close observation it
becomes obvious that the Bible deals primarily with
practical things. The reason it has much to say about money
is that financial matters are practical matters. However, let
me quickly add something even more significant. Nowhere
does Scripture ever say that money is the most important
thing.
In the following pages, I will bring to you from God's
Word a number of wonderful things that are much better
than money. (Please note: They do not appear in order of

11
 Things That Are Better Than Money

their value or importance.) I hope they will bless you as

much as they have blessed me and that they will help bring
balance to your understanding of God's plan of abundance
for you and His Church.

12
 2
2 Your Good Name
... that man was perfect and upright....
Job 1:1

If you were to ask a group of people to write down the

ten most valuable things they own, few, if any, would place
a good name on the list. However, the Word of God tells us
that a good name is one of the most valuable things a
person can have. The Bible lists it as one of those special
things that is more precious than money.
A good name is rather to be chosen than great
riches ....
Proverbs 22:1

King Solomon was so much impressed with the benefit

of having a good name, he declared it to be more valuable
than monetary standards could measure. Upon examination,
you will be even more impressed with the importance
Solomon placed on a good name, for he made another
statement about its value in the Book of Ecclesiastes.
A good name is better than precious ointment; and the
day of death than the day of one's birth.
Ecclesiastes 7:1

In this verse, Solomon says that a good name has a

better effect on a man's dignity during his lifetime than the
effect embalming ointment has on his body after death. In
other words, Solomon says a good name preserves a man
better in life than embalming oils do in death.

Entering Heaven

13
 Things That Are Better Than Money

The Book of Psalms powerfully describes the benefits

of having a good name. While the words good name do not
actually appear, the following verse is clearly a description
of a man who has one.
Lord, who may go and find refuge and shelter in your
tabernacle up on your holy hill?
Psalm 15:1, TLB

In so many words, the psalmist is asking what kind of

person God is going to allow in heaven. In the next few
verses, God gives a powerful answer. I ask you to notice
that His answer is totally different from the answer of many
religious leaders of our day. The Lord describes the man He
will allow to spend eternity in His heaven as one of
integrity and honor, a person with a good name, if you
please.
Anyone who leads a blameless life and is truly sincere.
Anyone who refuses to slander others, does not listen to
gossip, never harms his neighbor, speaks out against sin,
criticizes those committing it, commends the faithful
followers of the Lord, keeps a promise even if it ruins him,
does not crush his debtors with high interest rates, and
refuses to testify against the innocent despite the bribes
offered him—such a man shall stand firm forever.
Psalm 15:2-5, TLB

I Almost Lost My Good Name

The value of my good name is an ever-present reality to
me. The reason is that there was a day when someone took
my good name from me. It looked as if I had lost it forever.
I must now tell you of a most horrible season of my life. It
was when my wife and I had to fight a legal battle to clear
my good name. The dishonest dealings of some business
associates brought this nightmare into our lives. Their dark
deeds almost cost us everything we had. In fact, this

14
 Your Good Name

experience did cost us every material possession we owned.

We literally spent all our money. We even lost our home
and both of our cars. However, we gave them up willingly,
because when you are in a battle for your good name, you
quickly realize that the Bible is correct when it says a good
name is more precious than great riches. We gladly gave up
the things of lesser value (our material riches) to regain that
which is without price, our good name.
We thank God daily for the knowledge He has given us
in biblical economics. Since those awful days of losing
everything, we have been able to replace all the material
possessions we lost, by properly applying the knowledge of
His Word as to giving and receiving. I am convinced that
few people will ever fully realize how important their good
name is, that is, until they lose it.

Abraham Valued His Good Name

Abraham's good name was of the utmost importance to
him. The Bible tells us he refused the mega-wealth of two
prominent eastern cities (Sodom and Gomorrah), rather
than have his good name associated with the base practices
of the Sodomites of his day. If you remember, the king of
Sodom offered Abraham all the wealth of Sodom and
Gomorrah as a reward for delivering Abraham's nephew,
Lot, and the other people of Sodom from the hand of the
invading kings.
And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the
persons, and take the goods to thyself.
And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up
mine hand unto the Lord, the most high God ...
... that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou
[the king of Sodom] shouldest say, I have made Abram rich.
Genesis 14:21-23

15
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Obviously Abraham felt that no amount of money was

worth the smearing of his good name. God's Word clearly
documents that Father Abraham believed his good name to
be more valuable than all the riches of the two most wicked
cities of his day.

Joseph Valued His Good Name

The Word of God brings forth another tremendous
illustration of the importance of having a good name. It
comes to us from the life of a young man named Joseph.
Scripture tells us that during his early years in Egypt, he
was temporarily elevated to the position of chief steward
over the house of an important businessman named
Potiphar.
During his time of service there, his master's wife
constantly attempted to seduce him. How easy it would
have been for Joseph to have gone along with her advances.
If he would only have compromised, no doubt he would
have come into favor with the lady of the house. However,
Joseph counted his good name more valuable than the favor
of man or woman.
One day at about this time Potiphar's wife began
making eyes at Joseph, and suggested that he come and
sleep with her.
Joseph refused. "Look," he told her, "my master
trusts me with everything in the entire household; he
himself has no more authority here than I have! He has
held back nothing from me except you yourself because
you are his wife. How can I do such a wicked thing as this?
It would be a great sin against God."
But she kept on with her suggestions day after day,
even though he refused to listen, and kept out of her way
as much as possible. Then one day as he was in the house
going about his work—as it happened, no one else was
around at the time—she came and grabbed him by the

16
 Your Good Name

sleeve demanding, "Sleep with me." He tore himself away,

but as he did, his jacket slipped off and she was left
holding it as he fled from the house.
Genesis 39:7-12, TLB

Even though Potiphar's wife insisted, Joseph didn't give

in and compromise. His righteous reaction to her advances
caused her to lie about what actually happened. Because of
her false testimony, Joseph ended up in prison.
Some might say Joseph's acts of righteousness didn't
save his good name. They actually ruined it. His integrity
caused him to go to prison for attempted rape. Please know
this truth. It is desirable to have a good name with men, but
above all else, it is imperative that you have a good name
with God. Joseph knew it was better to face ruin before
men and spend his life in jail, than to lose his good name
with God and risk facing eternity in hell. Hear his words to
Potiphar's wife as she reached out to grab him.
"... How can I do such a wicked thing as this? It would
be a great sin against God."
Genesis 39:9, TLB

Everyone in Egypt might have believed the woman's

story. However, God knew that Joseph had not sinned
against Him. Joseph did what few men would have done.
He kept his good name with his God.
I have a favorite saying about a good name. It goes like
this: The true measure of a man is not determined by what
he does before men, but by what he does when no one will
ever know what he did.
Thank God, there was more to Joseph than just trying to
get ahead. He also had the integrity not to sin against his
God.
In this chapter, I believe I have shown you one of many
things more valuable than mere money. It's a good name!

17
 3
3 A Good Spouse
... they shall be one flesh.
Genesis 2:24

I never hear the word spouse without thinking of the

good wife God has given me. Surely she has proved
much more valuable than mere money. I agree with the
thirty-first chapter of Proverbs when it says:
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far
above rubies.
Proverbs 31:10

A Forceful Woman
God most surely gave me one of those rare
treasures, for I have a virtuous woman as a wife. Let
me now bring to your attention how easy it is to miss
the true meaning of this verse. The King James writers
weakly interpreted one of the original words of this
verse. I speak of the word virtuous. In the Hebrew it is
the word chayil. Its actual meaning is stronger than just
the word virtuous. According to Strong's concordance, *
it means "a force, whether of men, means, or other
resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, or strength."
With that definition in mind, the verse takes on an
expanded meaning. Following is a better translation: Who
can find a forceful, resourceful, strong woman, one who is
full of virtue and valor; for her value is far above rubies.
* James Strong, The Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Methodist
Book Concern, New York, 1923)

19
 Things That Are Better Than Money

A Rare Treasure
As you read through Proverbs 31, notice that the man
who has this type of wife is safe with her and can trust
confidently in her. Her activities bring forth multiple
benefits to him throughout all the years of his life. You will
find that the virtuous wife is a willing worker. She is not
afraid of some of the four-letter words that many of the
women of our day hate to hear—words such as work, iron,
cook, bake, wash, and dust.
The virtuous woman also has a good mind for business.
She is definitely not the helpless, airhead type. She
becomes involved in the financial decisions of the home
and business. You won't hear her say, "I just don't
understand anything about money matters."
She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of
her hands she planteth a vineyard.
Proverbs 31:16

She is generous to the poor (31:20). Who is more

qualified to teach concern for the underprivileged than a
compassionate mother and wife?

The Blood of Jesus Covers Her House

It is interesting to note how clearly the King James
Version draws a picture of household salvation in verse 21.
It speaks of this virtuous woman as having no fear of the
snow for her household. In the snowy season everything
looks as if it has died. It is a perfect picture of death. The
reason she doesn't fear the death angel is that her family is
covered in scarlet. Scarlet is the universal picture of the
saving blood of Jesus.
Thank God for godly mothers who keep the gospel of
Jesus ever before their households. Hear the writer of

20
 A Good Spouse

Proverbs as he so aptly describes this dimension of the

virtuous woman's activities.
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all
her household are clothed with scarlet.
Proverbs 31:21

An Elder's Wife
One of the benefits she brings her husband is that her
stability and good sense cause him to rise into leadership in
God's house, as well as in the community. He sits as an
elder in the gate (31:23).
A quick reading of the power-packed words of this
chapter in its entirety will quickly settle the matter. A good
wife is much more valuable than mere money.

The Wicked Don't Know

Many men don't know the value of a good wife. On a
recent television special, I heard one of the best-known
citizens of New York City. If I said his name, you would
immediately recognize it. In the interview, he made the
statement that his money was much more important to him
than either his wife or his girlfriend.
This man used to be a billionaire empire builder and
casino owner. Notice that I said, used to be. Yes, that's
right. This so-called "wonder boy, jet-setter" is now
bankrupt. It's interesting to watch the foolish big shots of
the world system, those whose lives so strongly contradict
the Word of God. No matter how famous and wealthy they
become or how happy they seem, God always has the last
laugh.
He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord
shall have them in derision.

21
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Psalm 2:4

Warning About the Wrong Wife

The Word of God carries a warning about choosing a
shameful wife. The writer of Proverbs shows us how
unfavorably she compares to the virtuous woman.
A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she
that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.
Proverbs 12:4

How descriptive this verse is! The virtuous woman is a

crown to her husband. The man married to her will feel like
a king. However, the shameful wife will bring a man to
disgrace, and her husband will feel as if termites and dry rot
have taken over his bones.
The Bible also speaks of the horror of living with a
contentious woman.
It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a
contentious and an angry woman.
Proverbs 21:19

A Good Husband
In the same way, there is tremendous value in finding a
good husband, for he also is more valuable than rubies or
riches. Please note that I am not speaking of a good
husband by the standards of the world. I am speaking of the
man who fulfills God's qualifications for being a good
husband. The Book of Ephesians outlines them for us.
Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved
the church, and gave himself for it;
So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies.
He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but

22
 A Good Spouse

nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church.

Ephesians 5:25,28,29

A God-approved husband loves his wife in the same

way Jesus loves the Church. Just as Jesus gladly laid down
His life for the Church, a godly husband will always be
ready to lay down his life for his wife. He will also be
constantly helping his wife to grow from one glory in
Christ to the next, until she finally comes forth in the
marvelous image of Jesus Christ Himself.
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the
glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from
glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
2 Corinthians 3:18

Like His Own Flesh

The God-approved husband loves his wife, even as he
loves himself. He is never hateful nor rude toward her.
Instead he is constantly nurturing and cherishing her,
even preferring her as Jesus prefers the Church. This kind
of husband will look upon his wife as a bride all the days of
their marriage. He will never refer to her as his "old lady,"
"the war department," or any other demeaning title.

Warning About the Wrong Husband

The Scriptures also speak about the terrors of marrying
the wrong husband.
As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a
contentious man to kindle strife.
Proverbs 26:21

God help the woman who marries a man because he is

handsome, popular, or wealthy. She will be infinitely better
off marrying a plain man who will treat her as Jesus does.

23
 Things That Are Better Than Money

The qualities of a godly husband will long outlast the good

looks, popularity, or money of the playboy type.
The Bible also tells us that a proper husband will
diligently work to provide for his family. It goes on to tell
us that an able-bodied man who does not provide a living
for his own family is worse than an infidel.
But if any provide not for his own, and specially for
those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is
worse than an infidel.
1 Timothy 5:8

With these few scriptural qualifications in mind, I hope

it has become evident that a good spouse is much better
than any amount of money could ever be.

24
 4
4 The Word of God
How sweet are thy words ....
Psalm 119:103

The quality of life in any society rises and falls in direct

proportion to how important the Word of God is to its
people and their leaders. All moral law and social justice
find their basis in the Book we call "the Holy Bible." It has
guided kings, generals, presidents, ambassadors, mothers
and fathers, as well as their children. It brings conviction
into the hearts of the basest of men, as well as to those we
consider above reproach.

An Instant Best-Seller
Without question, the Bible is the greatest book ever
written. History tells us it was the first book printed on the
first printing press. Since that day, not one year has passed
without its being a best-seller.
Tyrants have burned it; rulers have banned it. However,
it has never gone out of existence. Theologians have
debated it, liberals have tried to dilute it, and scoffers have
ridiculed it. Still it stands stronger than ever. In recent
years, an entire society attempted to outlaw it, only to
emerge from behind its iron wall of atheism with a
population hungering and thirsting for the Word of God.

Anvils and Hammers

The following illustration has always been special to

25
 Things That Are Better Than Money

me. It is about a blacksmith who had saved every hammer

he had ever worn out during his long career. He kept the
old, battered hammers in a stack in the corner of his shop.
People often made comments about the stack of discarded
hammers. Occasionally someone would ask how many
anvils the hammers had worn out. The answer always
seemed to surprise everyone. The blacksmith would reply,
"I have had only one anvil since I opened this business. It's
still sitting here in the middle of the shop, waiting to wear
out the next hammer that comes against it."
What a good parable this story makes about the
durability of God's Word. The anvil portrays the Bible, and
the worn out hammers are a perfect example of the foolish
men who have dared to come against it. In the same way
that the blacksmith wore out and threw all the hammers to
one side, so the opponents of God's Word eventually end up
broken and discarded. The Word of God, as the anvil,
steadfastly resists every blow without showing any wear.
The Psalmist minces no words when he tells us God's
Word is more valuable than money.
The law of [God's] mouth is better unto me than
thousands of gold and silver.
Psalm 119:72

Faith Comes by the Word of God

Without faith it is impossible to have any kind of
meaningful relationship with God. The Word of God is
clear.
But without faith it is impossible to please [God]....
Hebrews 11:6

How emphatic these words are! It is absolutely

impossible to please God without faith.

26
 The Word of God

God's Word tells us that faith comes by hearing the

Word of God.
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the
word of God.
Romans 10:17

The Word of God is the giver of faith, thereby making it

of infinite value, for "without faith it is impossible to
please him..." (Hebrews 11:6).

More Valuable Than Riches

Hear King David as he tells of the value of God's Word.
God's laws are perfect. They protect us, make us wise,
and give us joy and light. God's laws are pure, eternal,
just. They are more desirable than gold. They are sweeter
than honey dripping from a honeycomb. For they warn us
away from harm and give success to those who obey them.
Psalm 19:7-11, TLB

A Guide
The Word of God has always been ready to guide those
who are open to instruction. King David tells us it is a
precious lamp unto our feet.
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my
path.
Psalm 119:105

It has always been there to bring honorable men and

women into a more noble lifestyle.
God gives us His precious Word as a teacher to bring us
into perfect understanding of His purposes.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for
instruction in righteousness:

27
 Things That Are Better Than Money

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly

furnished unto all good works.
2 Timothy 3:16,17

The Word of God has always been the best guide to

keep the souls of men on course with God. It is the best
insulation against the contamination of sin for those who
hide it in their hearts.
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin
against thee.
Psalm 119:11

Only a fool would dare to argue with the fact that the
Word of God is one of those wonderful things that is more
precious than money.

28
 5
5 Understanding
... with all thy getting get understanding.
Proverbs 4:7

When discussing the things that are more valuable than

money, we must include understanding. God's Word is
clear about the connection between understanding and
being successful in this life. The reason is obvious, for the
Bible says with proper understanding comes every other
thing you desire. The Book of Proverbs goes even further
and says those who take the time to get understanding will
have riches and honor, as well as extended life.
Happy is the man that flndeth wisdom, and the man
that getteth understanding.
For the merchandise of it is better than the
merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.
She is more precious than rubies: and all the things
thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.
Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left
hand riches and honor.
Proverbs 3:13-16

Wisdom and Understanding Differ

At first glance, verse 13 seems to be saying that both
wisdom and understanding are more valuable than gold and
silver. However, upon close examination of the context,
you will find that the writer is placing the greater value on
understanding. Notice that when he states its worth, he
speaks in the singular.

29
 Things That Are Better Than Money

For the merchandise of it [singular] is better than the

merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.
Proverbs 3:14

It is important to note that wisdom and understanding

are not the same. Wisdom is knowing what to do with the
knowledge you have. Understanding is something quite
different. It is knowing why and how things happen.

Reason or Revelation
It is necessary to know how understanding comes
before you can fully appreciate the importance God places
upon it.
There are two very different ways to receive the
knowledge that brings understanding. One is by reason, and
the other is by revelation.
REASON: This is the way natural man finds things
out. Please know that I would never make light of this way
of gathering information, for the human creature has
accomplished tremendous understanding through reason.
Mankind has achieved astonishing progress in the natural
realm. For instance, the entire industrial revolution has
come to pass through his ability to reason. It has enabled
him to do truly marvelous things. However, no matter how
impressive this process might be, we must be careful not to
think too highly of it. I say this because reason has definite
limitations.
REVELATION: There is another method of increasing
understanding that is far superior to reasoning. It is
limitless in the scope of its knowledge. However, revelation
has limitations as to who can use it. Not all men are capable
of receiving revelation. It can come only to those who have
been born again. When I say born again, I am speaking of
those whom God has made spiritually alive. He limits it to

30
 Understanding

this group because revelation knowledge comes only from

God the Father, and He is a spirit.
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must
worship him in spirit and in truth.
John 4:24

The spirit of man acquires knowledge from the Spirit of

God by the process of revelation. Revelation knowledge
brings information to man he cannot obtain any other way.
The Apostle Paul makes it clear that the power of reason
cannot penetrate the realm of God's knowledge.
O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and
knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments,
and his ways past finding out!
Romans 11:33

Paul says the knowledge of God is in a realm that goes

beyond investigation, or reason... His ways [are] past
finding out!"

Not by the Five Senses

The following verse should begin to show the
importance of revelation.
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard,
neither have entered into the heart of man, the things
which God hath prepared for them that love him.
1 Corinthians 2:9

In the above verse, the apostle describes the inability of

man's reasoning power to discover the things God has
prepared for those who love Him. It is well known that the
natural, investigative devices of humans are their five
senses (seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, and touching). By
these senses, mankind has made all physical discoveries. In
1 Corinthians 2:9, the apostle mentions two of these senses.

31
 Things That Are Better Than Money

He says hearing and seeing cannot discover God's plans for

those who love Him.
Then he says the heart of natural man is also useless in
finding out God's plans for His children. The word heart as
it appears here actually means something more than the
blood pump that beats within the chest of man. In its
biblical sense, it means "the thoughts (thinking process),
feelings, emotions, and mind of an individual." I hope you
are beginning to see what Paul is saying. He is telling us the
mind (soul) of man with its reasoning power, cannot find
out the things God has planned.

By Revelation
Then the apostle goes on to tell us the method God uses
for getting His information to those who communicate with
Him. He states that the things He wants us to understand
will come to us by a supernatural process He calls
"revelation."
But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit....
1 Corinthians 2:10

Paul brings this matter to a head in the sixteenth verse

when he asks who has understood the mind or thoughts of
God. Surely the natural man has not. However, the
redeemed of the Lord are different, for they have been born
again and have access to the mind (understanding) of
Christ.
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he
may instruct him? But we [the redeemed] have the mind of
Christ.
1 Corinthians 2:16

Revelation Knowledge

32
 Understanding

The wonderful aspect of this limitless process called

"revelation" is that it is available to all who have come into
a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ. The Apostle Paul specifically prayed that the ability
to receive revelation would come upon all of God's
children. Yes, that means you.
That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and
revelation in the knowledge of him.
Ephesians 1:17

Paul specifically asks that revelation would come to

you. He further prays that wisdom would also be yours.
Remember, wisdom is knowing what to do with the
information you receive. Praise God!
Understanding the things of God by revelation is
infinitely more valuable than mere money. I know this to be
true, for everything I have and everything I have become
since I was born again is a direct result of the knowledge I
have received from God through revelation. I can honestly
say I would not take all the wealth of this world in
exchange for the understanding God has given me by
revelation. It has safely brought me this far, and it will take
me all the way into God's heaven when I die.
Hear with me one more time how truly valuable this
ability to understand really is.
If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as
for hid treasures;
Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and
find the knowledge of God.
Proverbs 2:4,5

Notice that understanding will not just drop out of the

sky on you the day you accept Christ. You must diligently
seek after it as if you were looking for silver and hidden

33
 Things That Are Better Than Money

treasure. We also receive a large part of revelation by

simply asking for it. Now notice I didn't say it comes from
asking men. It comes from asking God.
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find;
knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Matthew 7:7

Understanding God is understanding everything. It is

worth far more than the treasures of this world!

34
 6
6 Being the Temple of God
. . . ye are the temple of the living God ....
2 Corinthians 6:16

In the Book of Matthew, Jesus spoke some words to the

Pharisees that should have caused a fist fight. Notice the
sharpness of His comments.
Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever
shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever
shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!
Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or
the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing;
but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is
guilty.
Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or
the altar that sanctifieth the gift?
Matthew 23:16-19

With those few words, our Lord let the Pharisees know
that the place God calls His temple is infinitely more
valuable than the gold that adorns it. He tells them that
when they bring their money to the temple, the altar
actually has the ability to sanctify the money. The money
does not give worth to the altar, but the altar increases the
value of the money offered upon it.

You Are the Temple

As often as I have read these choice verses in Matthew
23, I never really grasped the depth of revelation they held.

35
 Things That Are Better Than Money

It wasn't until I began to write this book that they became

living truth to me. When you add these verses to the fact
that present-day saints are the temple of God, revelation
knowledge begins to operate.
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the
Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God
destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
1 Corinthians 3:16,17

Open your spirit and think about what these two verses
are saying. Matthew tells us the temple of God has the
power to sanctify money. Now allow your spirit to take one
more step, and realize that we, the born again, are the
temple of God. When you merge these two pieces of
information together, the revelatory process begins to
operate. The redeemed saints of God are more valuable
than any amount of money. The children of God are so
superior to mere money that when it comes into proper
contact with them, the value of the money increases. It
becomes sanctified money. This thought becomes even
more powerful when you realize that the Greek word
translated sanctifieth (Matthew 23:17) is hagiazo which,
according to Strong's concordance, means "to make holy,
purify, consecrate, or to venerate."
Now hold on to your hat as I merge one more scriptural
truth with these two verses. In the Book of Luke, Jesus asks
a question that up to this time no one had answered. Hear it
with ears that understand.
If therefore ye have not been faithful in the
unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the
true riches?
Luke 16:11

36
 Being the Temple of God

Italics Speak
Now pay close attention, for the King James Version
gives us some special insight into the original language.
Upon close examination, you will find that the word riches
is in italics. When the King James Version italicizes a
word, it means the word does not appear in the original
text. The translators have added it. Don't just take my word
for it. Check it out for yourself. Strong's concordance
doesn't assign it a number, nor do any of the interlinear
translations acknowledge it in the original text.
Let's paraphrase Luke 16:11 and see what it says if it
omits the word riches: If you are not faithful with
unrighteous money, who will commit to your trust the
responsibility of making it into true (money)?
If you are not faithful to do what God has trusted you to
do with the unrighteous money of the world system that
comes into your control, it can never become true money.
If you will notice, this is not a wild idea. The overall
context of these verses has to do with being faithful over
that which is another man's, for the very next verse says:
. . . if ye have not been faithful in that which is another
man's, who shall give you that which is your own?
Luke 16:12

The Tithe
With this verse in mind, let's turn our thoughts to God's
clear instruction about the tenth of all the money that comes
into our possession. God calls it "the tithe." His Word is
clear. Ten cents out of every dollar belong to the Lord.
They do not belong to us.
And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the

37
 Things That Are Better Than Money

land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord's: it is holy unto

the Lord.
And if a man will at all redeem ought of his tithes, he
shall add thereto the fifth part thereof.
Leviticus 27:30,31

I am thoroughly convinced that when Christians gain

financial increase by their activities in the world system, the
money they obtain is tainted money. The Scripture calls it
"unrighteous mammon." However, when Christians
faithfully tithe on the unrighteous mammon they receive,
they sanctify the money. As Luke 16:11 implies, they turn it
into true money.

Obedient Saints
Now please notice that the saint of God sanctifies the
money only if he does what God has trusted him to do with
his money. Remember, God trusts us with the unrighteous
money of this world system, so we can turn it into true
money.
If therefore ye have not been faithful in the
unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the
true riches?
Luke 16:11

This is a good time to remember that the word

sanctifieth (which we saw earlier in this chapter) actually
means to "consecrate the money, or make it good and pure
again."
... for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that
sanctifieth the gold?
Matthew 23:17

You Cannot Love Tithed-on Money

It is common knowledge that the servants of the world

38
 Being the Temple of God

system love money. However, when you faithfully tithe on

the unrighteous mammon you receive from this world, you
show to all that you do not love the money. Your obedience
in tithing goes even further, for it sanctifies the tainted
money of this world by making it the true money of the
Kingdom of God.
Now remember, Christians have the power to sanctify
money because they are the temple of God. When the
tainted gold (money) of this world system comes into a true
believer's control, that encounter sanctifies it. When I say
true believer, I speak of one who is faithful to tithe on all
his income.

Marked Money
Let me add just one more wonderful truth to this
chapter. You no doubt know the tithe is 10 percent. When
you tithe on your increase, you are clipping 10 percent off
your money. In type, you are actually performing a
spiritual ordinance, for you are circumcising your money.
In the same way that circumcision marked Israel as a people
set apart exclusively for Jehovah's use, the same thing takes
place with your money when you tithe from it. Tithing
marks it as sanctified and set aside for the Master's use. It
actually becomes Kingdom money, or better said, true
riches. See it as it really is in the spirit world. In tithing, the
person who earns the money brings it to the altar, and
causes it to bow the knee before Jehovah God.
God built a tremendous safety factor into the act of
tithing, for you will never be able to worship something you
have seen bowing the knee to God. You will never be able
to worship any money you have tithed on at the altar, no
matter how much it might be. In tithing, you cause your
money to acknowledge that Jehovah, and Jehovah alone, is

39
 Things That Are Better Than Money

God.
I must include you, the modern-day temple of God, on
the list of things more valuable than money, for you have
the power to sanctify money. Jesus says you do in Matthew
23:16-19.
Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or
the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
Matthew 23:17

. . . ye are the temple of God ....

1 Corinthians 3:16

40
 7
7 The Trying of Your Faith
... the trial of your faith, being much more precious
than of gold ....
1 Peter 1:7

The Bible minces no words about the tremendous value

of the trying of your faith. If it weren't so clearly stated, it
would be easy to miss the value God places upon this
process. Hear the apostle as he tells of the infinite profit
that comes to us when God tries our faith. He says these
most unpleasant experiences are like the refiner's fire that
purifies the finest gold.
... the trial of your faith, being much more precious
than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire....
1 Peter 1:7

Fiery Trials
I must admit that when I first started writing this
chapter, I had to take a deep breath. Like the Apostle Peter,
when I think of the opposition of Satan, I tend to think of a
series of fiery events instead of precious experiences.
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial
which is to try you....
1 Peter 4:12

It is interesting that Simon Peter calls the times of

testing both precious (1 Peter 1:7) and fiery (1 Peter 4:12).
The only explanation is that the actual testing of our faith is
like walking through a fire that stands between us and the
thing of value that lies on the other side. No one would ever

41
 Things That Are Better Than Money

describe the tribulations the saints walk through as fun-

filled events. When the devil attacks and tries to overthrow
our faith, I'll be the first to admit that it's hard to find any
joy in it. However, every victorious Christian knows the
following fact. When you have won the battle, and you see
the full manifestation of the thing you had hoped for, the
fiery fight you had to go through to get it, always becomes
one of those profitable experiences. You wouldn't trade it
for any amount of money.
The following verse of Scripture describes the fiery trial
that precedes a great victory.
... weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in
the morning.
Psalm 30:5

Overcomers Must Overcome

My good wife, Patricia, puts it this way: You will never
be an overcomer unless you have some things to overcome.
Yet a trial can go even deeper, for the trying or testing of a
Christian's faith brings forth more than just a victory. After
you have won victory after victory and have overcome trial
after trial, powerful weapons begin to grow within you.
Hear the Apostle Paul as he tells of them.
. . . we glory in tribulations also: knowing that
tribulation worketh patience;
And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of
God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which
is given unto us.
Romans 5:3-5

Patience
The first byproduct of tribulation is patience. Strong's

42
 The Trying of Your Faith

concordance tells us that the word translated patience

means "cheerful (or hopeful) endurance, constancy." One
result of the successful testing of your faith is the
development of constancy and endurance. Notice it won't
be the worldly kind of endurance—just grinning and
bearing it. No, godly endurance always couples with it the
virtue of cheerfulness. I have actually heard the people of
the world say it shows them the true power of God when
they see how happy some Christians are, even when
everything seems to be going wrong.
Notice how important patience, or constancy, is to
receiving from God. James says the man without constancy
cannot receive from God.
. . . let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that
wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and
tossed.
For let not that man think that he shall receive any
thing of the Lord.
James 1:6,7

Experience
The next benefit that comes from the trying of your
faith is experience. I like to explain this special asset as
proof. Here is how it works. First, you stand in faith,
believing God to give you something He has promised,
even if it looks as if you will never have it. Then, when it
does come to pass, you have experienced God's
faithfulness. The promise has materialized. You have it in
your possession. The manifestation of the thing becomes
proof positive that your faith in God's promises works.
David used his past experiences in his victory over
Goliath. If you will remember, King Saul tried to talk him
out of fighting the giant. However, David remembered

43
 Things That Are Better Than Money

some events from his past that made him stand fast. They
assured him of God's ability to manifest the victory over the
Philistine.
... David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's
sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb
out of the flock:
And I went out after him, and smote him, and
delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against
me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew
him.
Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this
uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he
hath defied the armies of the living God.
David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of
the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will
deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine....
1 Samuel 17:34-37

I hope you can see the value of past victories. Your

faithful stand on God's Word has manifested victories in
past battles, and they are proof positive that He has
delivered you before. If He did it before, He will most
certainly do it again. You know He will, because He is the
God who never changes.
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for
ever.
Hebrews 13:8

Hope
The next thing that comes to us through the successful
outcome of the trying of our faith is hope. Please don't let
the popular definition of hope cause you to miss its value.
The hope that comes from the trying of your faith is not, as
the world thinks it is, a mere wish. I am sure you have
heard folks say, "I hope everything turns out okay,"

44
 The Trying of Your Faith

meaning they are wishing it will turn out all right. That's
not biblical hope.
Hear the word hope in its true biblical context.
And our hope of you [Corinthians] is steadfast,
knowing [seeing it as done], that as ye are partakers of the
sufferings [tribulation], so shall ye be also of the
consolation [comfort].
2 Corinthians 1:7

Paul says the hope we have is steadfast, the kind that

knows that it knows that God will do what He has
promised.

Not Ashamed
Now here is the best part. Hope (seeing what God
promised as being already done) brings forth a confidence
that is devastating to the devil. Going through the fiery
testing of your faith releases a powerful byproduct to your
character. It gives you the knowledge that you will never be
ashamed for doing what God says nor for believing for
anything He has promised you. If the victory has come
through one fiery trial after another, you become convinced
that trusting God will never embarrass you. When God says
a thing is yours, and you believe it by faith, you will never
experience embarrassment nor shame by its not coming into
manifestation. You can always stand in faith with full
confidence, believing God will deliver.

Four Powerful Virtues

When the trying of your faith is complete, you will
come forth with the following virtues:
Patience—You will consistently stand without
wavering.

45
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Experience—You will have past victories to remember

while you wait for even greater victories.
Hope—You will see the things God has promised you
as already being done.
No Shame—You will have confidence that standing for
God will never embarrass you, for you know God will
deliver on His promises.
Surely these virtuous byproducts that come from the
fiery trials make the trying of your faith infinitely more
valuable than mere money.

46
 8
8 Strategic Relationships
. . . Is it a time to receive money? ...
2 Kings 5:26

God places high importance on relationships, especially

those that have potential to cause a breakthrough. After
being in the ministry over thirty years, I can attest to the
value of strategic relationships. How important they are to
the worldwide advancement of the Kingdom of God! Make
no mistake about it. The devil also recognizes the value of
these relationships, so he does everything in his power to
destroy them.

Elisha and Naaman

There are a number of strategic relationships in God's
Word. One of these relationships began to develop between
an influential Syrian military leader and God's prophet
Elisha. It could have produced a breakthrough for the
nation of Israel.
The fifth chapter of the Book of 2 Kings tells of the
high rank and special favor Naaman had with the king of
Syria, for it was Naaman who led the armies of Syria to
victory over the surrounding nations.
Upon close observation, we find that the Word of God
makes an interesting statement about this heathen, military
man. Naaman made his mighty conquests with the help of
Jehovah God.
...because by him [Naaman] the Lord had given

47
 Things That Are Better Than Money

deliverance [victory] unto Syria....

2 Kings 5:1

While it does not state what God's interest in him was,

it is evident God had plans for Naaman. However, He never
fully realized His plans. The reason for this failure lies with
Elisha's servant, Gehazi, for he had not learned that certain
strategic relationships are infinitely more valuable than
money.
The good news about Naaman is that God had blessed
him. However, this description of Naaman doesn't end on a
positive note, for the Bible goes on to tell us that Naaman
was a leper.
... but he was a leper.
2 Kings 5:1

Verse two gives us more information about God's plan

for bringing Naaman into a closer relationship with
Himself.
... the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had
brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid;
and she waited on Naaman's wife.
2 Kings 5:2

Unknown to Naaman or his household, her captivity

placed one of God's faithful servants inside the house of the
captain of the hosts of Syria. Notice that she did her part,
for she spoke up at exactly the right time. Hear the message
of hope she brought to Naaman's house.
And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord
were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would
recover him of his leprosy.
2 Kings 5:3

Just a few words from a little slave girl put world-

changing events into motion. These events soon place the

48
 Strategic Relationships

number-two man in all of Syria into a strategic relationship

with God's prophet Elisha.
When Naaman arrives at the prophet's house, Elisha
doesn't even come out to meet him. He simply sends his
servant, Gehazi, out to speak to him. The servant brings the
simplest of instructions to this great general. He tells
Naaman to go to the River Jordan and dip seven times.
When Naaman obeys, a wonderful miracle takes place, for
God instantly heals him of the leprosy.
Then went he [Naaman] down, and dipped himself
seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man
of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a
little child, and he was clean.
2 Kings 5:14

Notice the significance of what has happened. God has

miraculously healed the captain of the army that holds the
nation of Israel captive.
The next events that take place go beyond the
expectation of the casual reader, for Naaman solemnly
swears allegiance to Jehovah God.
...Behold, now I know that there is no God in all the
earth, but in Israel....
And Naaman said ... thy servant will henceforth offer
neither burnt offering nor sacrifice unto other gods, but
unto [Jehovah].
2 Kings 5:15,17

The obvious conclusion is that Naaman is converted to

the God of Israel.

Passing up the Big Offering

Upon returning to Elisha's house, Naaman makes a
tremendous gesture of gratitude. He offers much treasure to
the prophet for his deliverance. Immediately, the prophet

49
 Things That Are Better Than Money

realizes the priceless relationship God is setting up between

himself and the man who holds the key to the release of
Israel from bondage. Without hesitation, Elisha refuses the
money Naaman wants to give him. Instead, he looks to the
future and sees the potential blessing this prominent man
can be to the Kingdom of God. In refusing the money,
Elisha deepens the relationship that is rapidly developing
between himself and Naaman.
. . . As the Lord liveth, before whom I stand, I will
receive none. And he [Naaman] urged him to take it; but
he [Elisha] refused.
2 Kings 5:16

With this refusal, Elisha is saying that a favorable

relationship with the most powerful man in the Syrian army
is much more valuable than any benefit Naaman's money
could bring.

Greed and Ignorance Destroy the Relationship

Now let's see how the greed and ignorance of Elisha's
servant, Gehazi, bring an end to the strategic relationship
God has established.
Running after Naaman under false pretenses, Gehazi
takes from him two talents of silver and two garments. In a
brief moment, this greedy servant ends the beautiful
relationship God was forming between Elisha and the
number-two man in Syria. Gehazi hinders the plan of God
because he does not understand that certain key
relationships are more valuable than money. Hear the
prophet's words as he chastens his wicked servant.
. . . Is it a time to receive money, and to receive
garments, and oliveyards, and vineyards, and sheep, and
oxen, and menservants, and maidservants?
The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto

50
 Strategic Relationships

thee, and unto thy seed for ever. And he went out from his
presence a leper as white as snow.
2 Kings 5:26,27

Sometimes it is better not to collect an offering but

instead to develop an important relationship, one that will
be much more valuable than the money of the offering
could ever be.

Jesus Gets Thrown out of Town

There is another story of a strategic relationship in the
Gospels. It took place when Jesus was enjoying immense
popularity. Mark tells us He was regularly preaching in the
synagogues throughout all Galilee. It is obvious that this
freedom made the job of spreading the gospel much easier.
This strategic relationship with the leaders of Galilee gave
our Lord access to every pulpit in the region.
And he preached in their synagogues throughout all
Galilee, and cast out devils.
Mark 1:39

Now notice as all this favor comes to an abrupt end.

Verse 40 tells of a leper who comes to Jesus, asking Him to
make him whole.
And there came a leper to him, beseeching him ...
saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.
Mark 1:40

Jesus graciously heals the man.

And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his
hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou
clean.
Mark 1:41

Jesus Gives Specific Instructions

51
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Now notice carefully as Jesus gives this man some

specific instructions. If he obeys, the man's actions will
strengthen our Lord's relationship with the leaders of
Galilee. However, if he disobeys, he will bring to a close
the strategic relationship Jesus is enjoying.
... See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way,
show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those
things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto
them.
Mark 1:44

The Bible tells us the man totally ignores our Lord's

directions. Instead of showing himself to the priest, he takes
to the street, broadcasting the miracle to the multitudes.
Neither does he make the required offering. The events that
followed are sad, to say the least, for by his disobedience,
the man ends the relationship Jesus had enjoyed. He
apparently did save the cost of the required offering, but at
what a cost to Jesus' ministry!
Instead be went out and began to talk freely,
spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer
enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places....
Mark 1:45, NIV

The man's disobedience ruined the relationship between

Jesus and the leaders of the Galilean synagogues. How
important this relationship had been to our Lord! It was
infinitely more valuable than the money the man saved by
not making the prescribed offering.

A Personal Experience
A number of years ago, I was privileged to be involved
with a preacher who had been a rather famous rock and roll
star. He had also been quite successful as an entertainer in
Las Vegas.

52
 Strategic Relationships

Shortly after I met him, a wealthy hotel and casino

owner from Las Vegas was converted to Christ. God
gloriously saved this hotel owner, and he immediately
wanted to do everything he could to reach the people of Las
Vegas with the gospel of Jesus Christ. He contacted the
former rock and roll star and asked him to help present
Christ to his city. They made plans for a giant gospel
program featuring the best preachers and singers in the
nation. It was going to be a week-long, annual event that
would go on until Jesus comes.

Word Gets Out

Because of this extraordinary event, the hotel owner
issued many press releases. He had set up a substantial
advertising budget. He did everything first class and at full
speed ahead. There can be no question about it. God was
forming a key relationship with this Las Vegas multi-
millionaire.
Then it happened. The information about the casino
owner's conversion became known across the country.
Well, as much as I hate to admit it, a feeding frenzy
followed. A number of so-called ministers from across the
nation descended upon the city. Every fund raiser who
heard about this man's conversion passed through the hotel
trying to get him to donate some money.

The Relationship Is Broken

Finally, my phone rang one night. It was my friend, the
former rock and roll star. Tearfully, he told me of the
abuses that were taking place. Ministers were asking for
complimentary rooms, then leaving hundreds of dollars in
unpaid telephone bills. Some left unpaid room-service bills
that would make a spoiled aristocrat seem conservative.

53
 Things That Are Better Than Money

They left unpaid charges for limousine service, and even

for clothes and jewelry from the exclusive shops in the
lobby of the hotel. My friend told me the hotel owner
finally closed his office door to Christians. He not only did
that, but he also all but closed his pocketbook to paying for
the remainder of the meeting.
How different all this would have been if the Gehazis of
our day would have left this new convert alone. There
would now be an annual Jesus festival on the strip in Las
Vegas. God and the owner of one of the biggest casinos in
our land would have a great relationship.
Instead, ignorant men moved in and snapped up some
quick cash, leaving behind yet another ruined relationship.

When God Saves the Rich and Famous

How hard it is to convince the children of God that new
converts who come to Christ from among the rich and
famous, have something much more valuable to bring to
the Kingdom of God than their money. They have influence
in the world system. Oh, when will we learn that strategic
relationships with these movers and shakers are infinitely
more valuable than their money! If we would only stop and
ask ourselves the question Elisha asked Gehazi, how many
of these wonderful people would we spare?
. . . Is it a time to receive money? ...
2 Kings 5:26

I think not, for strategic relationships are far more

valuable than money!

54
 9
9 The Reproach of Christ
For we cannot but speak the things which we have
seen and heard.
Acts 4:20

It is common knowledge that not all Christians feel the

reproach of Christ. While no one wants to admit it, there is
a way of living that avoids the persecution that comes with
a bold Christian witness.

Many Secret Disciples

Even during Jesus' earthly life, it was common for
people to avoid the reproach of Christ. The Bible tells of a
prominent Jewish leader who respected and loved our Lord.
However, rather than face reproach from the Jews, he chose
not to identify publicly with Him.
... Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but
secretly for fear of the Jews...
John 19:38

Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, was an admirer of

Jesus. However, even this well-known Bible character
chose the cover of night to make his visit to our Lord.
There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus,
a ruler of the Jews:
The same came to Jesus by night....
John 3:1,2

The Torments of Fear

55
 Things That Are Better Than Money

As we search the Scripture for a cause for these times of

denial, the problem quickly becomes evident. Fear is the
common denominator always present when there is
hesitancy to identify publicly with our Lord.
The fear of identifying with an unpopular cause made
the disciples withdraw from Jesus. Not only did they
withdraw, but they openly denied knowing Him. Even the
courageous boasting of Simon Peter couldn't stand up to the
terror of that night. Hear him as he proclaims his undying
loyalty.
Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men
shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be
offended.
Matthew 26:33

These are magnificent words. However, our Lord knew

how shallow they really were. Hear Him as He re-
emphasizes His knowledge of total denial. He speaks
directly to Simon and says, "Simon, you will not deny me
once, but three times before the dawn."
Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this
night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
Matthew 26:34

We all know the outcome of this discussion, for all of

His disciples denied Him and left Him before the awful
events of that night were over. In every case fear caused the
betrayal.

A Better Day
Let's not let these dark events in the lives of our Lord's
disciples sound a negative tone. I am glad to report that
since those days of denial, millions have boldly stood as
His disciples. Not only have they stood, but millions of

56
 The Reproach of Christ

others have willingly died for their testimony of our Lord.

Secular history goes on to tell us that all but one of the
disciples were put to death for their unflinching witness of
Jesus. The one disciple who died of natural causes was
John the Beloved. Now don't get the idea that John went
through life without suffering reproach for Christ. In his
lifetime he was beaten, boiled in oil, and banished to the
Isle of Patmos for his bold testimony of the Lord Jesus.

More Valuable Than Treasures

Moses knew the reproach of Christ was more valuable
than money. The Word of God makes a clear statement
about him in the Book of Hebrews.
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to
be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of
God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the
treasures in Egypt....
Hebrews 11:24-26

Moses lived hundreds of years before the birth of our

Lord. However, we have written proof that even before
Jesus' birth, the reproach of Christ was more valuable than
many treasures. Please realize that during the lifetime of
Moses, Egypt was the leading nation on earth. It was
wealthy beyond measure. However, Moses quickly
concluded that the reproach of Christ would be more
valuable than all the money in Egypt. How could he make
such a decision?
Notice that Moses saw something. By faith, he saw that
a large reward comes to those who suffer reproach for our
Lord.

57
 Things That Are Better Than Money

... for he had respect unto the recompense of the

reward.
Hebrews 11:26

Moses was sure God would reward him, and you can be
sure God will reward you.
Blessed are they which are persecuted for
righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and
persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you
falsely, for my sake.
Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your
reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets
which were before you.
Matthew 5:10-12

Reproach Over Compromise

The Apostle Paul came to the same conclusion Moses
did. He faced the choice of identifying with the world
system or with our Lord. Paul could have chosen not to
suffer the reproach of Christ. He could have been a secret
saint. Like Nicodemus, he could have come to Jesus only at
night. However, he determined that momentarily suffering
reproach for Christ was infinitely more valuable than the
momentary enjoyment of pleasures in this world.
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time
are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall
be revealed in us.
Romans 8:18

Paul decided the price he would pay for standing for

Christ was well worth it in order to gain the glory Christ
brings.

The Grave Is Not Final

58
 The Reproach of Christ

Three glorious things belong to those who suffer

reproach for Christ. First, they become part of a select
company of men and women who know beyond any
shadow of a doubt that the grave is not final. They are
witnesses to the resurrection of Christ, knowing God will
resurrect them to live eternally with the Lord. Let us once
again hear the Apostle Paul as he speaks to Timothy.
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our
Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the
afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;
Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy
calling....
For the which cause I also suffer these things:
nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have
believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that
which I have committed unto him against that day.
2 Timothy 1:8,9,12

God's Power Becomes Your Power

The second glorious thing is that those who suffer the
reproach of Christ receive from the Holy Ghost the power
to stand for Him.
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is
come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in
Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the
uttermost part of the earth.
Acts 1:8

Nowhere was this power to witness in the face of

opposition more evident than in the life of the well-known
Christian martyr, Stephen.
... they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the
Holy Ghost....
...Stephen, full of faith and power...
Acts 6:5,8

59
 Things That Are Better Than Money

It is interesting that the word power in these verses is

the Greek word dunamis, from which comes our word
dynamite.
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is
come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me....
Acts 1:8

The Holy Ghost gives the believer extraordinary ability

and power to be an unflinching witness. Stephen became
this type of witness. His words convicted his enemies so
much that they stoned him to death.
Notice the link between Stephen and Moses. They both
chose to suffer reproach rather than deny the Lord. Their
decisions were not just religious zeal, for they both saw
something. They saw Him who is invisible.
By faith [Moses] forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath
of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
Hebrews 11:27

Now hear the same words about Stephen.

But [Stephen], being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up
steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and
Jesus standing on the right hand of God.
And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the
Son of man standing on the right hand of God.
Acts 7:55

Those whom Jesus has truly filled with the power of the
Holy Ghost, are able to bear the reproach of Christ.

A Lasting Reward
The third benefit of bearing reproach for Christ is the
unfading reward God promises.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath

60
 The Reproach of Christ

begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of

Jesus Christ from the dead,
To a n inheritance incorruptible, a n d undefiled, and
that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.
1 Peter 1:3,4

The Apostle Paul describes the reward this way.

I have fought a good tight, I have finished my course, I
have kept the faith:
Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of
righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall
give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto a l l them
also that love his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7,8

True Holiness Brings Persecution

Persecution is unavoidable to those who live godly
lives. Paul makes this truth clear in his letter to young
Timothy.
. . . all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer
persecution.
2 Timothy 3:12

Denying our Lord brings eternal loss.

Whosoever therefore s h a l l confess me before men,
him will I confess also before my Father which is in
heaven.
But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I
also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 10:32,33

Add to these scriptures the words Paul spoke to

Timothy, and the choice is simple.
If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny
him, he also will deny us.
2 Timothy 2:12

61
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Those whom God has redeemed can make only one

choice. If you know that you know that He is risen, denying
Him is out of the question.
For we cannot but speak the things which we have
seen and heard.
Acts 4:20

The reproach of Christ is more valuable than any

worldly treasure.

62
 10
10 Worshiping the True and Living
God
. . . so panteth my soul after thee, O God.
Psalm 42:1

When studying the life of our Lord Jesus Christ, it

becomes evident that the worship of the true and living God
is more valuable than all of the wealth, power, and prestige
of the whole world. Jesus is the pattern Son. He is the one
who has gone before us to show us the way. It's no surprise
then, that He first brings this truth to light. If you
remember, our Lord flatly turned down the devil's offer to
give up worshiping the true and living God and start
worshiping him. I am sure the devil thought he had made
the deal so sweet that Jesus would not be able to refuse.

Jesus Tested
The account I am speaking of took place immediately
after our Lord's baptism. It was at this time that God the
Father openly declared the divine relationship that existed
between Himself and His Son Jesus.
And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up
straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were
opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending
like a dove, and lighting upon him:
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved
Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Matthew 3:16,17

As soon as God makes this announcement, the Spirit

63
 Things That Are Better Than Money

leads Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted (tested) by the

evil one (Matthew 4:1).
When the testing begins, it comes in the form of three
powerful temptations. First the devil asks Jesus to prove He
is the Son of God by turning stones into bread. This idea is
especially tempting to our Lord, because He has just
finished forty days of fasting and is extremely hungry. The
devil focuses the second temptation on our Lord's ego, for
he suggests that He jump from the pinnacle of the temple
and emerge from the bottom of the gorge without injury.
Imagine how impressive this feat would be to everyone.
In the third test, the devil tries to turn the heart of our
Lord from the Father by offering Him the wealth of the
world.
All of this world's goods would be His if He would only
bow the knee to Satan. In answering the devil's offer, our
Lord clearly shows that worshiping the true and living God
is more valuable than all the wealth the world contains.
Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high
mountain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world,
and the glory of them;
And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if
thou wilt fall down and worship me.
Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for
it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and
him only shalt thou serve.
Matthew 4:8-10

Notice how much more value Jesus places on the

worship of Jehovah God than anything the world has to
offer. Jesus didn't hesitate, for He knew the wonderful
privilege of worshiping God Jehovah was more valuable
than money!

64
 Worshiping the True and Living God

The Psalmist Testifies

The psalmist is also clear about the value of worshiping
the true and living God. He says one day in God's house is
worth more than three years of doing anything else. He also
states that just being the doorkeeper at God's house would
be more valuable than holding a position of honor among
the wicked of the world.
For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had
rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to
dwell in the tents of wickedness.
Psalm 84:10

Notice the next verses. They tell us the psalmist doesn't

believe his rejection of the world system and choosing
worship in God's house will cost him the good things of
life.
For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will
give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from
them that walk uprightly.
O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in
thee.
Psalm 84:11,12

Notice the benefits he lists that go along with

worshiping God. He says God is light (sun) and protection
(shield), and a giver of unmerited favor (grace). He will not
withhold one good thing from the upright. He blesses the
man who walks uprightly.

Daniel's Time With God

It would not be right to speak of the value of
worshiping Jehovah God without telling of Daniel and the
great value he placed on his daily prayer and worship time
with the God of heaven. The story begins in the sixth

65
 Things That Are Better Than Money

chapter of the Book of Daniel. Here we see that Daniel has

come into special favor with King Darius.
This chapter tells us that King Darius sets 120 princes
over the business of his kingdom. Then he chooses Daniel
to be their chief overseer. Daniel's prestige is so great that
the princes become jealous of him and plan an evil scheme
to have him put to death. They trick the king by
encouraging him to make a vain decree. They get him to
pass a law that makes it illegal to pray to anyone except the
king for thirty days. The decree simply says that if any
person in the kingdom dares to pray to anyone except King
Darius, he will be thrown into a den of hungry lions that
will tear him apart.
The enemies of Daniel are aware that he prays three
times each day to the God of heaven. Now the question is,
Just how valuable is Daniel's time of worship to him?
Think about it. He would have to give it up for only thirty
days. Well, I am sure you know the answer. However, let's
see it again from God's Word.
Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he
went into his house; and his windows being open in his
chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees
three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his
God....
Then these men ... found Daniel praying....
Then ... they ... said before the king, That Daniel ...
regardeth not... the decree that thou hast signed, but
maketh his petition three times a day.
Then the k i n g c o m m a n d e d , a n d they brought
Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions....
Daniel 6:10,11,13,16

Daniel's decision makes it clear that worshiping

Jehovah God is more valuable to him than even life itself.
He boldly continued to pray as always. Why, he even had

66
 Worshiping the True and Living God

the windows open so that everyone could see him.

To make a long story short, Daniel survived the night in
the lion's den and emerged the next morning without even a
scratch. Oh, lest I forget to mention it, being a fair man, the
king then gave Daniel's enemies their turn in the lion's den.
Yes, you guessed it. The lions tore them to pieces.
And the king commanded, and they brought those men
which had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den
of lions ... and the lions had the mastery of them, and
brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the
bottom of the den.
Daniel 6:24

History is filled with the accounts of brave men and

women who have given their treasures and riches and even
their very lives, instead of giving up the privilege of
worshiping the great God Jehovah. It is no contest.
Worshiping the true and living God is worth more than
money or even life itself.

67
 11
11 Your Eternal Soul
...we have . . . an anchor of the soul....
Hebrews 6:19

Scripture tells us God formed man from the dust of the

earth. Then He breathed the breath of His Spirit into the
man he had formed. When the breath of God merged with
his flesh, the man became a living soul.
And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the
ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life;
and man became a living soul.
Genesis 2:7

The Soul's Value

Scripture tells us the soul remains in a conscious state
throughout eternity. This eternally conscious part of man is
more valuable than all the wealth the world possesses. Let's
hear this truth from the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.
For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole
world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in
exchange for his soul?
Matthew 16:26

Jesus makes it plain and simple. The man who loses his
soul has lost everything. He has suffered loss beyond
measure, for you cannot place a price on an eternal soul.
There still isn't enough money in the world to equal its
value.
When I try to explain the eternal value of a soul, one of

69
 Things That Are Better Than Money

our Lord's parables always comes to mind. It is the story of

the rich farmer who totally misjudged the infinite value of
his eternal soul. If you remember, he tore down his barns
and built larger ones. He then foolishly ordered his soul to
be content with the things he had bought with his money.
Hear him as he reasons with himself and plans for his soul's
comfort.
And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods
laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be
merry.
Luke 12:19

Everything seems to be going well until God abruptly

speaks, declaring the man to be a fool. Not only that, but
God reveals He will require his soul that very night. Worst
of all, the man is not ready to meet God, for his soul is
unregenerate, and he is not prepared for eternity.
But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul
shall be required of thee....
Luke 12:20

No Fool Like a Rich Fool

Jesus gives another example of a man who misjudged
the value of his eternal soul and ended up in hell. Luke tells
the story about a beggar named Lazarus and a rich man.
The rich man lived a prosperous life. To put it plainly, he
had everything.
There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in
purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day.
Luke 16:19

There is a fatal flaw in this rich man's thinking process,

for he is selfish and unsympathetic. He regularly passes by
the beggar without even caring.

70
 Your Eternal Soul

And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which

was laid at his gate, full of sores,
And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from
the rich man's table....
Luke 16:20,21

Now the story takes on a new twist. The rich man dies,
but much to his surprise, he is still conscious. His eyes
work. He is able to feel pain. He is thirsty. He has
memories, for he now begins to care about his lost loved
ones back home.
And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and
seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy
on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his
finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in
this flame.
But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy
lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus
evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art
tormented....
Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou
wouldest send him to my father's house:
For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto
them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
Luke 16:23-25,27,28

Think about it. This man lived his whole life without
making any provision for his soul. Then, rich as he was
before his death, he was not primarily thinking of his
money. His main thoughts were of the precious souls of his
five lost brothers who were still alive. It is as our Lord said.
For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole
world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in
exchange for his soul?
Matthew 16:26

There is no comparison between the pleasure and power

71
 Things That Are Better Than Money

of wealth during your short lifetime, and an eternity in hell.

If you gain the whole world and have to give your soul to
get it, you have made the poorest of bargains. Even the
worst sinner would have to admit that an eternal soul is
more valuable than all the wealth this world can produce.

Eternal Torment
The last verse in the wonderful Book of Isaiah tells of
the eternal state of those who misjudge the value of their
eternal souls.
. . . go forth, and look upon the carcasses of the men
that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall
not die, neither shall their fire be quenched....
Isaiah 66:24

... what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Matthew 16:26

72
 12
12 The Precious Blood of Jesus
... the precious blood...
1 Peter 1:19

There is a fountain filled with blood

Drawn from Immanuel's veins;
And sinners, plunged beneath that flood,
Lose all their guilty stains.*

Oh! precious is the flow

That makes me white as snow;
No other fount I know,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.**

When it comes to the blood, apostles have filled the

Holy Writ, poets have written volumes, songwriters have
harmonized, and preachers have sermonized. However, it
still remains the wonder of wonders. I speak of nothing less
than the precious blood of Jesus, that crimson flow that
means so much to so many people. Why, the mere mention
of that precious flow never fails to stir the hearts of those
who have benefited from its cleansing effect.
The blood of Jesus moves all of Christianity as nothing
else can. It is the most precious thing the Church possesses.

A Big Subject
There probably is no subject in Christianity we can say
* Words by William Cowper, 1731-1800
** Words by Robert Lowry, 1826-1899

73
 Things That Are Better Than Money

more about than the precious blood of our Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ. Several theologians in our century have
written entire books on this topic. Because of the vastness
of its scope, it becomes extremely difficult to write about it
in just one chapter. Therefore, this chapter will just barely
scratch the surface. I will write only a few words about the
blood in these four areas: its power to divide, unite, and
save, and its pricelessness.

The Blood Divides

In the sixth chapter of John, an event illustrates the
tremendous power the blood possesses to divide. It is a
season when our Lord's popularity is probably at its peak.
Many people have come to hear Him teach. At this point of
His ministry Jesus begins to reveal the deeper truth about
Himself as the bread of life. If you notice, He states this
great truth in a very matter-of-fact way.
... my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.
For the bread of God is he which cometh down from
heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
John 6:32,33

Hear the people as they encourage Him to tell them

more about this bread that comes from heaven.
... Lord, evermore give us this bread.
John 6:34

Notice how Jesus takes this teaching to depths that

eventually cause division.
... Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life....
John 6:35

This teaching goes on until verse 53. Here Jesus speaks

the words that abruptly bring separation.

74
 The Precious Blood of Jesus

... Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh
of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in
you.
John 6:53

We see the culmination of this division in verse 66

where the writer tells us,
From that time many of his disciples went back, and
walked no more with him.
John 6:66

This result is typical of the blood of our Lord, for it has

always been a point of division.
I would like to share an event that took place many
years ago when I was pastoring in Denver, Colorado. For
some reason, I was in a meeting with a prominent member
from the largest liberal church in the city. The reason for
the meeting escapes me at this time. However, I will never
forget something he said to me.
As soon as he realized I was a pastor, he began to tell
me of the wonderful project his church had just completed.
He said they had successfully edited out of their old church
hymnal, every song that had any mention of the blood in it.
When I heard these words, I immediately asked why in the
world anyone would want to do such a horrible thing. His
reply almost floored me. He said, "We want to rid ourselves
of the stigma of the slaughterhouse religion."
That was all I could take. My next words strongly
reaffirmed my love and loyalty for the blood of our Lord,
and its absolute necessity for salvation. Needless to say,
that was the last I ever heard from that misguided church
member.

The Blood Unites

75
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Strange as it may seem, the same blood that so

powerfully separates, also unites. Notice the special word
the Apostle Paul uses when he describes the Lord's Supper.
I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say. The cup of
blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the
blood of Christ? ...
1 Corinthians 10:15,16

In the King James Version, the word translated

communion is somewhat vague. It comes from the Greek
word koinonia. Strong's concordance gives it a more potent
definition. It comes from a root word meaning
"partnership, namely, participation or social intercourse." It
literally means "to communicate, communion, distribution,
fellowship." Koinonia is talking about joining together in
close relationship. As you can see, the very blood that
caused many of His disciples to walk with Him no longer
(John 6), is the very element that draws all the members of
the body of Christ together. The eating of our Lord's flesh
and the drinking of His blood in the ordinance of Holy
Communion is probably the part of Christianity in which
the Church participates with the most union. In this
ordinance, the Church and the blood of our Lord come
together in fellowship from one end of the earth to the
other. The blood is powerful in its ability to unite believers.

The Blood Saves

The salvation of a lost soul is still, without a doubt, the
most important miracle God ever performs. To take a lost,
hell-bound sinner and turn him into a heaven-bound son or
daughter of God is a wonder without parallel. It involves
God's taking a sinner, one He cannot even look upon, and
redeeming him. The word redeem means to "ransom or buy
something back." The blood of Jesus paid the price to

76
 The Precious Blood of Jesus

ransom us.
Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with
corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain
conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
But with the precious blood of Christ....
1 Peter 1:18,19

If a person's plan of salvation does not involve the

blood, the Bible says it will not stand.
... almost all things are by the law purged with blood;
and without shedding of blood is no remission.
Hebrews 9:22

My own circumstances continue to bring me into a

deeper and deeper revelation of the vast worth of the blood.
It is precious blood, for it saves.
When I accepted Christ, I confessed and forsook
tremendous sins. I have testified of the transformation and
the absolute change of everything in my life. However, God
also forgave me of things no one but Jesus and I know
about, things I could not have forgotten. When He saw the
blood that Jesus shed for me, the Father instantly forgave
those sins and cast them into His sea of forgetfulness, never
to remember them against me again.

The Blood Is Priceless

The Apostle Peter plainly says the blood of Jesus is
priceless.
Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with
corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain
conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb
without blemish and without spot.
1 Peter 1:18,19

77
 Things That Are Better Than Money

I could say much more; however, I leave this chapter

simply saying that the blood of Jesus is much more
valuable than gold or silver. It is, without a doubt, the most
valuable thing in the universe.

78
 13
13 The Anointing
. . . he didn't realize that the Lord had left him.
Judges 16:20

The fact that the anointing is more valuable than money

is evident to all those who have ever felt its power come
upon their lives.
There is a place in Scripture where the Lord shows us
the infinite superiority and value of the anointing over mere
money. It becomes evident in the life of an opportunist
named Simon the Sorcerer. He is present when one of the
first gospel campaigns takes place. Simon sees the great
power of the Word of God, and as he observes the
preaching of the gospel, he gives lip service and verbally
accepts Christ.
Then Simon himself believed also....
Acts 8:13

If only Simon had allowed this encounter to truly

cleanse his heart, how differently his story would have
ended. However, as he observed the phenomenon that
accompanies the filling of the Holy Ghost, he was stirred to
monetary gain instead of to spiritual progress. Hear him as
he tries to buy the anointing that brings about the filling of
the Holy Ghost.
... when Simon saw that through laying on of the
apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them
money,
Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I
lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.

79
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Acts 8:18,19

What a flawed judgment this man had! Instead of

eagerly grabbing the money, Simon Peter rebuked him and
told him of the evil that had come into his heart.
But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee,
because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be
purchased with money.
Thou hast neither part nor lot i n this matter: for thy
heart is not right in the sight of God.
For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness,
and in the bond of iniquity.
Acts 8:20-23

Samson's Anointing
Nowhere in Scripture is the anointing of God more
visible than in the life of Samson. God had made him an
anointed vessel from his mother's womb. However, Samson
did not appreciate his anointing. The Word of God tells us
he continually chose the pleasures of sin over the virtues of
the godly life. He chose the ungodly Philistine women over
the godly women of Israel. He was often in the company of
harlots. He gambled and made sport with the offscouring of
the earth. Finally we see him languishing in the lap of
Delilah, telling her the secret things of God.
Eventually the day comes when God withdraws the
precious anointing from him. Hear the biblical account.
And [Delilah] made [Samson] sleep upon her knees;
and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off
the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him,
and his strength went from him.
And she said, The Philistines be upon thee, Samson.
And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, I will go out as at
other times before, and shake myself. And he wist not that
the Lord was departed from him.

80
 The Anointing

But the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and
brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of
brass; and he did grind in the prison house.
Judges 16:19-21

Here we see a most pitiful event. God removes the

anointing from His appointed servant. The Philistines blind
Samson and bind him like an ox. Instead of being the
champion of God, he becomes the chump of Satan. Now he
grinds at the mill for the heathen.
Sometimes losing the anointing is the only thing that
will open the eyes of men and women who lose track of its
value. Hear Samson as he pleads to feel the power of God
in his bones just one more time. He is now ready to pay
with his life if the anointing will only return and let him
once again taste the victory of God.
And Samson called unto the Lord, and said, O Lord
God, remember me, I pray thee, and strengthen me, I pray
thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once avenged
of the Philistines for my two eyes.
And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars upon
which the house stood, a n d on which it was borne up, of
the one with his right hand, and of the other with his left.
And Samson said, Let me die with the Philistines. And
he bowed himself with all his might; and the house fell
upon the lords, and upon all the people that were therein.
So the dead which he slew at his death were more than
they which he slew in his life.
Judges 16:28-30

Thank God for His forgiveness and His grace in

reinstating the anointing of Samson. However, we cannot
help but wonder how much greater the ending of this story
would have been, if Samson would have valued his
anointing in the beginning of his life as much as he did in
the end.

81
 Things That Are Better Than Money

A Big Mistake
Now let's look at the story of the misguided son of Isaac
named Esau. His story is in the Book of Genesis.
Esau was the oldest son of Isaac. The birthright, or
priesthood of the family, would one day be his.
... Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and
Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents.
And Isaac loved Esau: ... but Rebekah loved Jacob.
And Jacob sod pottage: a n d Esau came from the
field, and he was faint:
And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me ... for I am faint....
A n d J a c o b s a i d , Sell me t h i s day thy birthright.
And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and
what profit shall this birthright do to me?
Genesis 25:27-32

There you have it. Esau had the anointing of God. It

made him the spiritual leader of his brethren, but he sold it
for a mere bowl of beans. It is not until you read the Book
of Hebrews that you see how much Esau regretted the loss
of his anointing.
Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as
Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
For ye know how that afterward, when he would have
inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no
place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with
tears.
Hebrews 12:16,17

My Anointing
In my own life there are treasures that are not for sale,
nor will they ever be for sale. Among these is that precious
power of God that came upon me, the day God called me to
preach His precious Word. This great power took me from

82
 The Anointing

the bottom rung of life and has carried me throughout the

earth. It has brought me into the presence of the greatest
men of my day.
Please note that I do not measure these men as great by
the yardstick of the world. I speak of the great men of God I
have the privilege of knowing, some here and some now in
heaven. This anointing has given to me, a near dropout
from high school, the privilege of having written seventeen
books that have all been best-sellers. It has allowed me to
speak messages that have brought hundreds of millions of
dollars into the hands of godly men and women. The
anointing brings me by television three times each day into
the homes of millions of believers in America as well as
across the earth.
The next statement I make with all sincerity. If I were
offered a billion dollars for my anointing, if the cash were
on the table and someone had already paid the taxes,
without hesitation, I would say no. You might say, "Why,
Brother John, that's a mighty big statement. Are you sure?"
Yes, I know I am speaking the truth, for I once had to spend
three years without the anointing. My foolishness cost me
my ministry. During that time, the business world treated
me better financially than anyone would believe. However,
when the Holy Ghost of God called me and offered me the
right to go back into the ministry, I left the business world
that same morning. I left in spite of the fact that if I had
stayed only sixty more days, I would have received my
bonus for the whole year. That bonus would have been
enough money to pay the salary I made during the first five
years of my return to the ministry. It was an easy choice to
make, especially after three years of absence from my
precious anointing. Patricia and I forfeited a bonus equal to
our wages for five years, rather than wait just sixty more

83
 Things That Are Better Than Money

days to return to the anointing.

With this said, I hope you have seen at least a glimpse
of the value of the anointing of God. It is definitely worth
more than money.

84
 14
14 A Final Word
Now that you know these things that are better than
money, my prayer is that this knowledge will help you
achieve the balance you need to be all God wants you to be.
However, I must also bring a final thought. It comes from
the Word of God.
... money answereth all things.
Ecclesiastes 10:19

When he makes the statement that money answers all

things, Solomon deals with the practical part of this book,
for without money I could never have it published. Granted,
many things are better than money. However, everything
worth having is dependent upon money.
Think about it. Your good name, a good spouse, and the
good Word of God are all dependent upon money. Even the
message about the precious blood of Jesus, as valuable as it
is, depends upon money. It takes money to carry the gospel
from generation to generation and country to country.
Remember, Jesus had a treasurer who kept a bag of
money for His ministry. The Apostle Paul says the plan of
salvation depends on money and the faithful saint who
gives it.
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord
shall be saved.
... how shall they hear without a preacher?
And how shall they preach, except they be sent? ...
Romans 10:13-15

85
 Things That Are Better Than Money

Yes, the gospel of salvation is free to those who receive

it. However, it costs a tremendous amount of money to
those who take the responsibility of sending it to others.

A Balanced View
No matter what your view of biblical economics might
be, you now know there are things more desirable than
money. As always, the entire Church stands ready to teach
these great truths, for the answer to every problem lies in
getting God's Word to a lost and dying world. There is only
one thing missing. It is the money to send the message.
This is why I teach biblical economics. This is why I have
so much to say about money.

86