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  THE PERILS OF POSSESSIONS
  by John Henry Jowett
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Summary: The sermon discusses the dangers of wealth, highlighting its
potential to divide and tempt, while emphasizing reliance on God's
protection.

Topics: "Wealth And Greed", "Spiritual Protection"
Scripture References: Psalm 37:16, Proverbs 11:28, Matthew 6:24, 1 Timothy 6:10, James 5:1

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DESCRIPTION
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John Henry Jowett preaches about the divisive nature of wealth,
highlighting how riches can lead to alienation within families and the
awakening of hidden vices. Success often breeds selfishness, envy,
jealousy, and other negative traits, increasing temptations and
challenges. Despite the dangers of prosperity, God can protect us from
its harmful effects, as seen in the example of Abram who remained
unscathed and close to God even as his wealth grew.

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CONTENT
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GENESIS xiii. 1-9.

There is nothing more divisive than wealth. As families grow rich their

members frequently become alienated. It is rarely, indeed, that love

increases with the increase of riches. Luxurious possessions appear to
be

a forcing-bed in which the seeds of sleeping vices waken into strength.

For one thing, selfishness is often quickened with success. Plenty, as

well as penury, can "freeze the genial currents of the soul." And with

selfishness comes a whole brood of mean and petty dispositions. Envy
comes

with it, and jealousy, and a morbid sensitiveness which readily leaps
into

strife.

So do our possessions multiply our temptations. So does the bright day

"bring forth the adder." So do we need extra defences when "fortune
smiles

upon us." But our God can make us proof against "the fiery darts" of

success. Abram remained unscathed in "the garish day." The Lord
delivered

him from "the destruction that wasteth at noonday." His wealth
increased,

but it was not allowed to force itself between his soul and God. In the

midst of all his prosperity, he dwelt in "the secret place of the Most

High," and he abode in "the shadow of the Almighty."

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/john-henry-jowett/the-perils-of-possessions/
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