I can’t read the following verses without thanking God for a group of friends I have who have given over £100,000 so far this year for mission projects and people around the world. They are ordinary and wonderful people who God has blessed and they are taking that blessing and blessing many others.
We are moving into Paul’s final instructions to Timothy in this first letter.
“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. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 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 v 17-19)
To those with wealth:-
- Your wealth hasn’t made you a better person. It has made you a steward with greater responsibility than most.
- Your wealth doesn’t give you security. God is your provider.
- Your wealth means you can bring a positive impact into lots of situations.
- Your wealth means you can choose a generous lifestyle.
- Your wealth means you can actively pursue need and opportunities to give rather than wait to be asked.
- Your wealth mirrors God’s nature.
- Your wealth when released brings a return of true life marked with purpose, joy and eternal significance.
To those without wealth (so you think):-
- Where is your true trust? Is God your provider and how are you proving this?
- Are you known for your generosity?
- Generosity doesn’t have to involve money.
- Look around at your ‘stuff’ and ask how you can bless someone with it.
- To be rich is not to grab and to be willing to give.
Missions Paul 