“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV)
Sometimes, Christians who have an abundance of material goods forget how they received those blessings and from whom. Certainly, rich people are not the only ones who exhibit pride. There is something about material abundance, however, that produces a spirit, an attitude of self-sufficiency. Let us be clear that the riches are not the problem, since God provided them for us to enjoy. The problem is the self-sufficient pride they create in the human.
With Paul, let us humbly acknowledge who provides our material blessings. Our text passage instructs us to do this and explains why they were given to us . . . to generously do good works and share with others. Remember, this is Scripture not some social scientist’s plan for redistributing the wealth. Let us also be motivated by the truth that using our wealth as God requires will create a foundation of treasure for our future. And in this present world, it will enable us to know the real meaning of life.
So, what’s the real issue? Don’t put your hope in things, whose value is determined by economic uncertainty. Instead, put your hope in God, who determines the certain future of us all.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for all the material blessings that you have provided. Grant to us the humility to acknowledge your gifts and enable us to faithfully minister to others. Empower us to trust only in the certainty of your plan and purpose. In Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his material blessings and use them to glorify him,
Pastor Smith