Warning to the Wealthy
Opening Prayer
Lord, You have given so much and so generously to me. I thank You and praise You for Your great goodness.
Read 1 TIMOTHY 6:17-21
[17] 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. [18] Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. [19] 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. [20] Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, [21] which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith. Grace be with you. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What commands does Paul give wealthy folks here?After addressing those who want to be rich, and warning them of the dangers of such, Paul turns his words to those who are already wealthy—so that whichever group we fall into, he has words for us!
It is easy when one is wealthy to become proud and arrogant, thinking that we are entitled to have whatever we want when we want it (because we can likely buy it!) and have the adulation and subservience of those around us (who may willingly give it!). But as the recent economic collapse has shown us, wealth is uncertain (17). A few bad days in the stock market in recent months wiped out much of the wealth of many people. Rather than trusting in our own wealth or strength, we are reminded of the certainty of God (17) and the call to use our wealth wisely to lay up “treasures in heaven” (19).
It is wise to remember the key lessons in 1 Timothy. As Paul instructs Timothy, we must retain the teachings of the Gospel in our hearts and minds and avoid teaching that is contrary to what’s in the Bible. That is wise living, to be sure.
Apply
To which of the two groups referred to above do you belong? What is this text saying to you?
Closing prayer
Lord God, giver of every good gift, help me to use Your good gifts wisely to store up treasures in heaven.
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