Devotional Two

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV) provides us with the foundation for handling our wealth and investing in future generations.  Paul instructs believers to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share. Particularly those that are wealthy. We who are living in the developed world, often fail to appreciate how much poorer the bulk of the world’s population really is compared to those in our country. If you live in the USA, you are wealthy by world standards. Here is what Paul says in 1 Timothy 6: 

17 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life”. 

Paul instructs us not to be arrogant and to fix our hope on God rather than material possessions, emphasizing that God generously provides for us to enjoy Him and His gifts. The results of a Godly use of wealth, yield the eternal benefits and fulfillment that benefits future generations. As we reflect on these words, we are reminded of the call to seriously consider God’s gift in light of eternity. Material wealth is not inherently wrong, but our perspective and use of it can either draw us closer to God or lead us astray. 

Reflection

Take a moment to reflect on your approach to wealth and resources. Are you placing your hope in your possessions or in God's abundant provision? Are you actively seeking ways to invest in His church and future generations that will benefit from the Gospel?

Welcome to our Bible study on 1 Corinthians 6:17-19.  In this passage, the Apostle Paul exhorts us to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share. He reminds us not to place our hope in our wealth but in His work and future generations.

Heavenly Father, we come before you with grateful hearts for the opportunity to study and learn from your Word. Please open our hearts and minds to the teaching of 1 Corinthians 6. Teach us to have a proper perspective on our wealth and Godly generosity.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV) 

17 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.

As Paul writes to Timothy, it is important for us to understand how we fit into the context. We are the wealthy believers that Paul is addressing. Paul outlines the proper and Godly perspective on wealth as follows: 

Verse 17: Paul instructs the wealthy not to be arrogant and to fix their hope on God rather than material possessions, emphasizing that God generously provides for us to enjoy.

Verse 18: Paul outlines how the wealthy should use their resources: by doing good, being rich in good works, being generous, and being ready to share.

Verse 19: The results of such godly use of wealth are described, highlighting the eternal benefits and true fulfillment that come from investing in the lives of others.

• How does this passage challenge our modern views on wealth and possessions?

• Why is it important for those who have material resources to guard against pride and find their hope in God?

• In what practical ways can we "do good" and be "rich in good works" with the resources God has given us?

• What does it mean to be "generous and ready to share"? How can we cultivate this mindset in our lives?

• Reflecting on verse 19, what does it mean to "take hold of that which is truly life" through our investments in the future generation?

Consider your own financial and material blessings. Are you currently using them in a way that reflects the principles outlined in this passage? Pray for guidance on how to best use your wealth with a Godly perspective. 

Reflect on the needs presented in our “Standing Firm” campaign, Consider the way God is revealing opportunities for investment in future generations.  

May we all seek to honor God with the resources He has entrusted to us, investing in the lives of others, especially the next generation, for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.