Scripture to Read: 1 Timothy 6:17
Today and tomorrow, we unpack 1 Timothy 6:17-19, and we see that God has a specific word for those who have been blessed with the wealth of this world. We must understand that being wealthy in this world is not an ungodly thing, but those blessed with wealth are given some direct instructions from our Lord God Almighty. Through Paul, God tells Timothy (and us) that the believers who are rich are not to be conceited. Having great wealth in this life can cause a great temptation to see oneself as better than those who do not have as much in this world. If it were not a temptation, God would not have given such a specific instruction to the rich not to be conceited and arrogant. God also instructs the rich not to put their trust in their riches. We all know that there are no guarantees this world can offer, but again the temptation to trust in one’s wealth is very real; that is why God warns against trusting in one’s riches. God tells us in Proverbs 11:28, “He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like the green leaf.” We find our true riches through our relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. Everything this world has to offer is going to fade away; God tells us this in Proverbs 27:24 “riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations.” But what our King and Lord offers us is eternal and perfect and that is why we must trust in Him completely.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about putting your trust in worldly riches?
2. How are you guarding your heart from trusting in anything this world has to offer?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!