[367 words]
We live in a country that is wealthy and even though we may be going through a hard time we are still considered some of the richest people in the world. The Bible teaches that contentment with what we have, if we are rich or poor, is an important character trait we all should work to have. Seeking after money and possessions opens us up to temptation and leads to sin.
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs” (1 Timothy 6:6-10).
Putting our faith in our money or being unwilling to let it go, is a danger we all face. Much of what the Bible teaches about wealth focuses on the heart or intent of the person who has it and wants to keep it. When we place our hope and trust in money it is no longer placed in God as it should be. The Bible teaches us how we are to use the wealth we have been blessed with.
“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” (1 Timothy 6:17-19).
True treasure can only be found in God and it is a treasure that can never be taken from us. Love God with all your heart.
Brad Tolbert
Monticello church of Christ
Monticello, AR