In the Muppets' version of Charles Dickens classic "Christmas Carol," Ebenezer Scrooge portrays a ruthless entrepreneur gripped by greed. The Ghost of Christmas Past takes him to a pivotal scene in his life, when he had to choose between his girlfriend and his money.

Prior to this event you could see excessive ambition, but still some possibilities of decency for this young man. Then he chose money. After that scene, you see a man in a dark and sinister lifestyle obsessed with greed.

There is nothing wrong with being thrifty, and prudently saving for the future, as long as we live in balance. A lack of balance can be obvious when we choose another hour at the office, at the expense of important family events. Or it can be when people know you as cheap, rather than generous. There are many warning signals to look for, but looking to your own motives is the best source of truth. Ask yourself why? Why are you chasing money?

Jesus taught in Matthew 6:24, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."

Many believe they can love God and money both, but just like Mr. Scrooge found out, a decision must be made. If you are at a decision point, or want to change directions, like Mr. Scrooge ultimately did, try prayer and repentance, memorize some verses that help during weak moments, and find an accountability partner to ask you the hard questions. So how about you, does your life reflect your love for God, or for money?

© 2002, Integrity Management, Inc. "Integrity Moments with Rick Boxx" is a weekly commentary on issues of integrity in the workplace from a Christian perspective.