Living In the Zone: Mastering Money, Not Loving It

Read

1 Timothy 6:17 "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment."

Think

"We have to realize that the love of money, not money, is the root of all evil." – Pastor Ed Young

I’ll admit it—there have been times when money felt like the answer to my worries. If I could just earn more, save more, or buy that one thing, then I’d feel secure or happy. But it never works, does it? Money itself isn’t the problem—it’s when we start to love it, to trust it more than God, that it begins to take over. Living in the zone means shifting our trust back to God and using money as a tool for his purposes, not letting it rule our hearts.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “Earthly goods deceive the human heart into believing that they give it security and freedom from worry. But in truth, they are what cause anxiety.” I’ve felt that deception. The bigger paycheck doesn’t bring peace. The new purchase doesn’t erase the stress. In fact, chasing money often creates more anxiety, more striving, more emptiness. But when I pause and remember that God is my provider, not money, everything changes.

Living in the zone means seeing money differently—not as a measure of worth or a source of control, but as a gift from God to be used wisely. It’s about letting go of the grip money has on our hearts and trusting that God will meet every need.

Today, ask yourself, “Does money serve me, or do I serve money? Surrender your finances to God and trust him to lead. When you live in the zone, you’ll experience the peace and freedom that comes from relying on God, not money. And that’s where true joy begins.

Apply

Evaluate your trust. Take a moment today to ask yourself, “Am I trusting God to provide, or am I relying on money for my security?” Write down one way you can shift your focus back to him.

Pray

Heavenly Father, thank you for being my ultimate provider and reminding me that my security and peace come from you, not money. Help me to trust you completely and use what you’ve given me to bless others and honor you. Teach me to live with open hands, trusting in your faithfulness and provision every step of the way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.