“For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Timothy 6:10).

“I grew up poor and vowed that I would not live that way as an adult,” the CEO/owner said with a gruff voice. Sitting at his desk and glancing down at his electronic device which contained the resume of this potential manager in one of his districts, the CEO looked up and said, “So tell me, what are the priorities of your life? Forget telling me about your education. It is great. Forget telling me about your experience. It is exceptional. Forget telling me why you want this position. I simply want to hear what are the most important things to you beginning with the greatest and working your way down to the last. Just tell me.”

Without a moment of hesitation, Frank Gregory said, “Thank you, sir, for considering me for this position. Here are my priorities. First is the Lord my God. Second is my wife. Third would be my children. Fourth is my work, including this position, should you hire me. Fifth would be volunteer opportunities that may come my way such as working once in a while in a soup kitchen, taking a missions trip every couple of years, or volunteering to work on the home of a senior citizen or military personnel. Those are my priorities. Though my work comes in fourth, please understand that because the Lord is first, I will work in honesty and integrity for you. Because my wife is second, you will not have to fear how I will conduct myself with ladies in your company. Because my children are third, I will work hard to provide a living that will meet their needs. These are my priorities, sir.”

The CEO/owner returned to his electronic device, rubbed his chin, shook his head and said, “Mr. Gregory. I have worked myself nearly to death to make millions. Money has been everything to me. Just a little more is all that I’ve ever wanted. Now you sit here and say that my company would be fourth on your list of priorities. Mr. Frank Gregory, all I can say is that you are hired! I have lots and lots of money, and  yet I am miserable. You don’t love money, but hearing your explanation, I think you will be the best person for this opening. When can you start?”

Friends, I realize it doesn’t always work out this well in career interviews. But Frank’s order of priorities should be the model for us all. There is nothing with having money. It is the love of money that is the root of all evil. We need to possess money to live in this world. It is when money possesses us that we are in trouble!