Don't let your own demons of mediocrity keep you from buying a nice pair of shoes you can *afford* just because a materialistic person might also have the same pair. Nor should you be so naive in thinking a nice house you once again can afford will keep you out of heaven.

And for those of you referring to scripture, you might want to take a closer look at the current culture of the upper class and what was going on in those specific cities before submitting to a life of rags and the mundane.

And to the person that referred to poverty as a blessing, tell that to the father who has to look into his kid's eyes and tell them they can't eat for another day or two.