Friday, January 30, 2009

Perspective



I have been following globalrichlist.com going on 6 years now. It always reminds me how blessed Adrienne and I really are. The perspective I've gained over the years from this site and others like it, has changed the way we live, spend, and talk about wealth. We (americans) have a very distorted view of wealth. For some reason we think we need more. 

For example, let me show you how rich I am ;). I am a music and arts pastor at a church and a part-time recording engineer/producer. Not really careers that are typically associated with being wealthy, but I think you would be surprised to learn that my wife and I are well into the top 1% money makers in the ENTIRE world. There are roughly 6 billion people less fortunate than my family when it comes to income.

My purpose in this post is to share some perspective. Please hear my heart. I'm not saying don't buy a nice house or a nice car. All I am encouraging you to do is think, "do i need this much?" or "can I do with less?" when considering where you spend your money. The beauty is we can do with less and with what is left over you can give to those less fortunate than you. Be reminded, those who are reading this post, yes, even you college student, are rich beyond most peoples wildest dreams. Let us pray that God would bring us perspective in this time in our history.

grace and peace,
Matt

2 comments:

maventheavenger aka jamie said...

It is hard to keep perspective. I find it difficult to know how to not feel guilty. I suppose that's where gratefulness comes in...

Matt Gibson said...

i hear you Jamie. I just try and be grateful everyday for my life and where God has me....then look for ways to help and give back...whether through raising awareness or giving from my pocket...

much love bud. your amazing...