QT 20 July 16, 1 Tim 6:17-19, Being rich is not a sin, but misusing wealth can be

1 Timothy 6:17–19 (ESV) — 17 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. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 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.

NOTE: God is not against being rich. The scriptures clearly teach not to be obsessed with the desire for riches. We are to be content with what we have. But if we are rich, that is not sin either. Once again, we need to be content, which can be just as difficult when rich as when poor. Why? Because the rich can go out and buy / replace things on a whim, and that is not showing contentment, Also, the rich are not to be haughty, which seems to be the single most obvious trait of the rich, thinking that they are better than others because they are rich. Nor should they place their trust in riches. Their faith must be in God and that is difficult for the rich. Job's riches allowed him to fix things, including his children's indiscretions, but we can't put our trust in the power wealth gives us but in God's power to work in life and through people. The rich want to rush out and fix things with their wealth, especially in regards to their children, because they can. It is hard to hold back when you can and let things run their course. It is very hard indeed. It is okay to enjoy what God has given. We should use those gifts in good works, opening up our home or possessions as needed for others. Sometimes, we need to give to others those things that we really don't need. True life is not found in riches but in our treasure in heaven. There life will be full and right. But, if we are rich, we have a responsibility, actually a charge, a command, to use it wisely.