December 1, 2024

I Timothy 6.17 (NIV)

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

Riches were never true to any that trusted to them.*

Paul does not condemn the wealthy for being wealthy. If you are rich, good for you. But, Paul warns, don’t think too highly of yourself just because of your money. How did you get rich in the first place?  Did you inherit it? Then you have nothing to brag about. Did you earn it by being shrewd and hard-working? Who gave you the health and the intelligence to accomplish that?

 

It is possible to get rich without God’s help. Even for those who give God credit for their fortunes, there is still the temptation to forget that they need God. Even if we wisely and generously use our wealth, it can fail us. Is your faith strong enough to survive the loss of your wealth? Is your faith strong enough to withstand obtaining wealth?

No matter how much pleasure our treasure affords us, it can’t buy joy. Paul tells Timothy to command the rich people to put their hope in God – who richly provides everything for our enjoyment. He doesn’t just provide for our needs and expect us to be satisfied with that; he wants us to enjoy things. Things he has created for our pleasure – but not for our worship. And what better way to find joy in our stuff than to share it with others?

It is better to have the permanent divine source of wealth than the transient wealth itself.*