Kris,

Look at Luke 1:37, with God nothing is impossible. The Lord wants us to be successful and with His help, righteous desires can be met. Wealth can help the church and the people in the church, if we are unselfish. I think selfishness is the sin, not the wealth. We have to be careful not to allow the pursuit of money and posessions become our goal in life. However, poverty is not a punishment, it makes you rely more closely on the Lord and helps you recognize His hand in your life. Also, it allows those who have money the opportunity to serve. The one thing that the Lord requires from both the rich and the poor is that they both give all they can. That's all that matters, is the willingness to give. Hope that this helps you. Sorry, I am at work so I have no scriptures and I am going off the top of my head.

Marissa