Handling Wealth Wisely.1 Timothy 6:17-19.
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 God’s 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.
Dear Elect of God,
Finally, Paul advises on the proper handling of riches and in this advice, supplies the formula for setting oneself free from materialism and the love of money.
Attitude (v. 17). People who put their hopes in riches are teetering on very precarious ground. One can be rich today, poor tomorrow. For this reason, the rich should not be boastful or proud. They ought to put their hope in God because he is the one who gives wealth and all good things for us to enjoy. Riches are a blessing from God and ought to be enjoyed with thanksgiving, not arrogance.
Action (v. 18). The rich should also be rich in generosity. They ought to do good and acquire the wealth of good works. God gave them wealth to enjoy, but not alone. Sharing that wealth is a way of acknowledging God, who gave it, and who expects it to be shared with the needy.
Anticipation (v. 19). We cannot take our property, bank accounts, and stock holdings to heaven. But we can take our wealth there! Every sincere good deed is a deposit in the treasure chest of heaven. This is open to all because one does not have to be rich to do good. This focus on the use of material possessions to do good is liberating. Liberal givers quickly discover that the best use of wealth is in the meeting of needs and the alleviation of suffering. One finally begins to understand that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15). Freedom from materialism and the love of money is achieved with generous, selfless giving. Set yourself free. Give.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.