Wario
Stinkin’ rich Wario
Wario is the black sheep of the Mario family. Once, he was Mario’s nemesis in *Super Mario Land 2*, but his goals shifted toward becoming extremely wealthy. As a treasure hunter, Wario is determined to collect as much treasure as possible and will go to great lengths—smashing anything in his path—just to obtain a shiny goblet or treasure chest. In one of his Game Boy adventures, Wario must gather as much treasure as he can to win the largest house from a genie. You might think that with his wealth, Wario would exhibit some manners and courtesy, but he will always remain the rudest and sleaziest member of the Mario family.

King Solomon did not want his kingship marked with error and foolishness. He asked God to give him wisdom to rule Israel. God added unimaginable wealth and honor to boot because Solomon asked for something so noble. In the beginning, Solomon did an exemplary job as a king. He could solve disputes, answer impossible questions, and manage any problem. The Bible proudly claimed he was the wealthiest guy in history. But Solomon didn’t let wealth and glory tear him away from righteousness—at first. The low-hanging fruit of corruptible power won in the end. Solomon began to acquire foreign princesses as his wives to exert political leverage. To appease those wives, he gave them free rein to practice their pagan religions. God’s holy and righteous theocracy turned into a place for idol worship. This marked the tipping point for the downfall of Israel and Judah.

None of us will ever be as rich as Solomon (even if you account for inflation), but God wants us to learn an important lesson from his story. Money does not equal wisdom, knowledge, or a working moral compass. King Solomon started his reign with a strong desire to follow God, but his wealth gave him too many options to break away from him. The temptation was too great. Does this mean money is the root of all evil, and Christians should be penniless? No, Solomon blessed God with his money by building the temple and richly blessing the people he ruled. When Solomon took his eyes off of loving God and people, he sinned with his extracurricular activities. God never asked Solomon to gain political respect through marriage or to acquire so many wives (over 700), but that goal is what ultimately led to his downfall.

God’s wealth always comes with a holy goal. We are called to serve God and each other. Even if our wealth is time, talent, or followers, we need to be good stewards of our gifts. Don’t let God’s providence for your mission be your downfall.

 
Figure it out:
2nd Chronicles 9:22-24 (GNT)
22 King Solomon was richer and wiser than any other king in the world. 23 They all consulted him, to hear the wisdom that God had given him. 24 Each of them brought Solomon gifts—articles of silver and gold, robes, weapons, spices, horses, and mules. This continued year after year.

1Timothy 6:17-19 (NIV)
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. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.1. Circle all the words, phrases, and ideas that stood out to you.
2. What is God’ purpose in this text?
3. What is our purpose in this text?
4. What part of this scripture do you want to reflect on or bring into your faith? 
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