It makes me think of using stuff for security, for image, for acceptance and status, for power, for escape, for pleasure and for hope. It means looking for satisfaction in a place other than God. Materialism is an overemphasis on material things versus spiritual things. We give of our money, time, energy and of all we have received, like our education. My primary responsibility is to support my family before others.
Scripture is clear on that.
Most of us can do this and still help the poor. First you give to God your tithes and offerings. This will include missionaries. Then it says to give to the household of faith first, to take care of my family. Then you take care of others such as the street person, and you want the gospel involved.