"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
Though our names will never appear on Forbes list of the wealthiest Americans, the truth is that in comparison to most of the world we are rich. We must be on guard against hoping in and seeking after wealth and the things it buys. Our hope and joy need to be always fixed upon God our provider rather than on the things He has provided.
Our true wealth is not in "this present world" but in "the coming age." Therefore wise stewardship is to invest the wealth of "this present world" into the things that will bring dividends in "the coming age." Billy Graham was influenced by a simple chorus that he learned as a child. It goes like this: "With eternity in view, with eternity in view, let me live my life for Jesus with eternity in view." That would be a good prayer for us all.
Father, help me not be be consumes with the things of "this present world" but rather to live my life for "the coming age" so that I might "take hold of the life that is truly life."
I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark
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