What comes to mind when you hear the word "rich?"
Maybe an unattainable goal?
Other people? A few select? Sin?
In the New Testament, people equated wealth with spirituality. The Pharisees were wealthy—the common folk looked up to them spiritually and were impressed with them financially.
Is God against His people being rich?
No… But neither is it His design that all His children would be rich in financial resources.
"If you have real character, money will not spoil it. Persons with genuine character can handle adversity and prosperity." S Truett Cathy
Wealth that will actually last
Riches passing through the hands of eternally minded Christians can do great things for the Kingdom of God. See Matt. 6:20
Yesteryear: J.C. Penney was saved after the Great Depression and the loss of his personal wealth. Soon after, he began giving cheerfully and sacrificially to the cause of Christ and other benevolent pursuits.
Cautions
Riches can also bring on great destruction in the life of a Christian:
comparisons, the desire for more, and love and lordship of riches.
Psalm 62:
If riches increase, set not your heart upon them
Wealth, Is it Worth it? by S. Truett Cathy
Practice viewing the money you give to the Lord as treasure that will last forever (much longer than the things we enjoy during this life). Every day brings you further away from today's treasures and closer to heavenly treasures.
If you have a question or comment about today's topic, we invite you to share your thoughts.
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