1 Timothy 6:17-19 “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. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”
Here, the apostle Paul is not teaching that it is wrong to be rich, but it is wrong to be arrogant about riches or to put hope in my wealth instead of in God. How do know if I’m putting hope in my wealth? Well, am I obsessing over investments, constantly worrying about ups and downs in the stock market, frequently calculating my net worth, over-insuring my possessions, and withholding generosity toward others and toward God? Because wealth is uncertain, I will live in fear unless I learn to depend on God and hold onto money with a light grip. God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment, but it is easy to miss the enjoyment by craving more or fearing loss or forgetting that God is my provider. Those whom God has blessed with riches are commanded to do good, be rich in good deeds, be generous, and willing to share. This leads to experiencing “life that is truly life.”
Father, your Word teaches that a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions (Luke 12:15). Yet it is easy to forget this truth in a highly materialistic society. Please continue to remind me that you are my Provider, not only for material things but also for the ability to truly enjoy them instead of fretting over them. Thank you for your amazing and abundant provision over all these years and for always showering me and my family with your love and generosity. I am undeserving of your love and grace. Indeed, you always give life that is TRULY life.