QT 5/16/2024 1 Tim 6:17-21, Using wealth properly

1 Timothy 6:17–21 (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.

20 O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called “knowledge,” 21 for by professing it some have swerved from the faith.

Grace be with you.

 

NOTE: It is not evil to be rich or to have riches. David and Solomon were rich. Lydia was rich and her giving was very helpful to Paul's ministry. The point is not the money, but what it does to you. Wealth can create pride. It can make people think they are more important than others. The real storing up is not the money, but the treasure of good works by using the money for the kingdom's sake. Finally, our faith is not to be based upon our money. That was one of Job's two lessons. He was the richest man of the east, but riches cannot solve all of the problems of life. Riches do not give the power needed for every event. Faith is required and trust that God cares, as he does for every one of his children, those who have called upon his name. True life is not found in buying things but in giving. Money will disappear someday -- what will we have left when we stand before God? How will we have used what he gave? Will we be the like the man who buried his talent (hid his money) and never used it for the kingdom sake? Or will we use and give our talents (our riches) for the kingdom sake, growing the kingdom? There is no tomorrow to decide, there is only today, tomorrow never comes to those who put off things they should do.

 

PONDER:

1. How am I using my wealth?
2. Do I make plans on how to increase my giving (not my getting)?

 

PRAYER: Father, thank you for all that you have given over the years. Continue to show me ways to give and support others in ministry. I want to be a blessing to others.