In 1 Timothy, chapter 6, we learn a valuable lesson on money through Paul the Apostle. However, only those that love the Lord, there God, with all their heart, mind, and strength, will apply this message to their lives. So without further ado, let’s get into the first part of what Paul taught about money and being rich. He said, 1“for we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.” (1 Timothy 6:7-11) So now that you have the teaching, really think about what you’ve learned before you start seeking for riches in your life. Let me explain. In the past, even up until recently, I was like everyone else who wanted to have the next best things in life, while making as much money as possible. I’d fill up my Amazon Wishlist with tons of things and then purchase them when there were deals. In this time, I went through many financial struggles and was not happy. However, God has recently put on my heart that all this is unnecessary. That I should be content in what I have and need, and if I have too much, that I should sell those things and give that money I’ve earned to the poor. This can be in purchasing winter hats, gloves, blankets, coats, water, and food for them. You may think that this would be too hard to do, but I am now happier than ever while doing this. If I want anything now, it is to give to those in need.
Truly, money almost took me down the path of becoming divorced and even homeless, because of almost losing our home and all the stress in the marriage. However, God has given me a new outlook on how to use money correctly now in His sight and things are much better. This is because I no longer love money, but what it can do for other’s needs instead. Therefore, my faith in Christ has grown exponentially, while seeking God’s hand first in my life now. I am more selfless and patient than ever before. And if I can do anything now, I give God all the glory. I don’t want any recognition for myself in any way. Now, concerning those people that are already rich, Paul said the following… 1“Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19) Oh how wonderful is this teaching, and I pray that people that have more than they need in life will apply this to their lives. May they not feel that they are better than others, but instead, give unto those who are less fortunate. Being willing to give right away when they see a need is what God expects of them. They should be willing to talk with those people that are less fortunate as well, and not blow them off. If they are doing these things, plus have their faith in Christ also, then they are saved. Eternal life is for all people, rich or poor, that live out their lives for Jesus. Now, the question is, are you seeking God daily by reading the Bible and praying often? If so, then the Lord is with you and you won’t help but do His will above all things.
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, I pray that people will do justly with their money, for Your sake. Too many people are spending it on things they do not need, while those that are in need suffer because of their wrong choices. What is really sad is to see people try to earn as much money as they can, while still not doing anything for the homeless, their churches they attend in tithing or offerings, or simply looking outside themselves, in order to see and give to those that are more in need than themselves. Truly the world would be a better place if we all loved You more than money. Then, would our desires be less for ourselves and more for the building up of Your kingdom, and to giving to those less fortunate. Instead of heartache, depression, and divorce, that is caused by financial issues, all this could be fixed if people were more content in what You gave them and less of what the world offers. Thank You, Lord, for teaching me this and for helping me remember that seeking You first is the most important thing for my life. It is because with Your presence I am strong, but without Your presence, I am left alone, while making the worst decisions I can possible. I don’t wish to be unhappy, but money and having more treasures because of it is what does this to me. Oh, the hardships this has put on my family, because of my selfish purchases. I am so sorry Lord. I don’t wish to have my family suffer any longer because of what my flesh desires. Instead, I hope and pray that I will be content in what I have and give what I do not need to those in need. May this good desire, that only comes from You, stick with me in my heart for all my life. For all I need is You now, Jesus. I love You more than any earthly treasure. I believe in and trust in what You can do for my life for salvation. Thank You for your guidance. Amen.
Let us read the Bible:
Note: Any Numbered References, found above, are listed below.
11 Timothy 6 (KJV)
1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.
2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;
14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:
15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.
