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1 Timothy 6:9 But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction.
Some of the early Christians struggled with the temptation to gain wealth. When the Christians in the church of Corinth came together, the wealthy would arrive sooner and eat the choicest foods, leaving the poor to go hungry (1 Cor. 11:17-22). Similarly, Paul warned Timothy that those who long to be rich become trapped by foolish desires. James also warns the rich, indicating they will receive judgment for cheating the pay of those who work in their fields.
Living in the West, there is a strong temptation to read these passages and think, Well, those passages aren’t written to me because I’m not rich. However, our culture is constantly screaming the high value of “success.” The profit-loss chart needs to be going up and to the right. Perhaps every chart needs to be going up and to the right.
These passages serve as a great reminder to us all. We are to find riches in the Gospel, not in our bank accounts or wealth.
READING & PRAYERS:
1 CORINTHIANS 11:17-22, JAMES 5:1-12, 1 TIMOTHY 6:9-10, ROMANS 11:33 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What are at least three ways you can live out the riches of the Gospel today? Be specific.
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Write down a list of a few things that help you experience peace and contentment in life. Then consider creating a plan that leads to you saying “yes” to these things more regularly and “no” to others.
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, when the word rich comes into my mind it’s usually in regard to financial riches, not the riches of the Gospel. Thank You for the reminder that the Gospel message is full of riches, and that these riches lead to a life of surrender, gratitude, and love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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