The Bible has unsavoury descriptions for the greedy. Psalm 17:12 compares him to the devouring lion that is greedy over his prey. Proverbs 15:27 says that he who is greedy brings trouble upon his household. Isaiah 56:11 compares the greedy to dogs! Coming over to the New Testament, we see how greed disqualifies from ecclesiastical offices. Those who are greedy are ruled out of such ecclesiastical offices as the bishopric and diaconate.

Jesus had a prescription for treating this terrible ailment. One day a young rich ruler came to Jesus, asking for what was necessary to make it to the Kingdom of God. The first demand was that He should keep the commandments, and he scaled that most brilliantly. Then Jesus asked him to sell what he had and give before coming to carry his cross and follow. At this he went away sorrowfully. Let us observe, first of all, that this was not a standard practice with Jesus. It was not all the rich people that came to Him for salvation that were asked to dispossess themselves. We still have the like of Joseph of Arimathaea who followed Him with wealth. The particular problem with this man was that he trusted so much in his riches. Jesus was trying to help him refocus and make God the basis of his confidence. We may not be called upon to do away with everything we own, but we must arm ourselves with the mind that God reserves the right to call for anything. Again, even when we are not to give all, we must cultivate the habit of regular bountiful giving. This is necessary to uproot the tendency of greed and faith in what cannot save the soul.