What does the Bible say about the dangers of riches?

The Bible frequently highlights the dangers associated with riches, emphasizing that they can harden the heart and lead one away from God. Scriptures like 1 Timothy 6:10 declare that the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil and can lead individuals to stray from the faith, while Jesus warns in Matthew 19:24 about the difficulty for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God. Riches often create an illusion of security and contentment, but in reality, they can ensnare one's heart and distract from spiritual pursuits.

Moreover, historical examples from Scripture illustrate the destructive power of greed and wealth: Achan’s sin led to Israel’s defeat, and Judas’ betrayal was for money. These accounts serve to remind believers that the pursuit of wealth can lead to spiritual decay and idolatry, as it can consume one’s motivations and desires, drawing them away from God and towards selfish pursuits.