When Tragedy Becomes a Business
In seasons of tragedy, when hearts should unite in compassion, sadly we often see another story: people using sorrow and disaster as a stage for personal gain. Whether it’s through false fundraisers, pocketed donations, or exploiting the needs of the hurting, greed has a way of creeping into even the most sacred spaces of grief.
The Profit of Pain
History shows us that after disasters, scams flourish. False charities spring up, social media posts circulate with pleas for help, and well-meaning people open their wallets only to discover later that their generosity never reached the ones in need. Supplies meant for families in crisis sometimes disappear into the hands of opportunists.
In 1 Timothy 6:10, Paul warns us:
“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.”
Money itself is not evil, but the love of it—the lust for gain at any cost—drives people to take advantage of tragedy rather than heal it.
A Real-Life Concern
This truth is not just theoretical—it shows up in our own communities. Consider the questions raised about local fundraising events and supporters gave money for playground renovations, concerts were held for victim relief, and donations poured in. But where did those funds actually go? What about tithing… do you know where your money goes?
As years went on, questions multiplied:
Why were events quietly canceled without accountability?
Who really benefited from the money?
Why did the public hear little about grants or improvements?
Were these causes truly about helping families, or did they become opportunities for personal profit?
The community deserves transparency, and when it doesn’t come, suspicion grows. Even if everything were legitimate, the silence around accountability erodes trust. And that’s the lesson here: without honesty, even good intentions can look like exploitation. Rumors fly and people get hurt.
Guarding Our Hearts and Hands
Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 10:16 to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” That means we are to remain generous, but not gullible. It means checking into the organizations we give to, making sure funds are handled properly, and asking hard questions when something doesn’t add up.
As Christians, we must also be careful not to fall into cynicism. It’s easy to let the failures of others harden our hearts to the point that we stop giving altogether. But the enemy wins when we withhold compassion out of fear of being scammed. Instead, let’s be wise, discerning, and faithful in how we give.
A Devotional Reflection
When people profit from pain, it can stir up anger, frustration, and mistrust. But God calls us to respond with both truth and love. Where others exploit, we can build. Where some deceive, we can shine light. Let us not allow greed to define our communities—let honesty, accountability, and compassion lead the way.
Reflection Question: How can I give wisely, ensuring my generosity helps people and glorifies God rather than being misused?
Prayer
“Lord, help me to see through deception and give with wisdom. Protect me from bitterness when I see greed at work, and instead, give me courage to demand accountability while keeping my heart open to generosity. May I reflect Your love in a world too often driven by the love of money. Amen.”
