What lesson did Paul teach Timothy regarding those who are discontent? Notice, “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition” (1 Tim. 6:6). Understand, Paul is not stating it is wrong to prosper. In fact, Christ’s longing is for everyone to follow the way which will provide full, abundant lives—both spiritually and physically. Of course, obedience to God’s way of life would have this natural effect. But to “desire or will” to become rich—to make that your foremost goal in life—is completely misguided!
Paul continues, “For the love of money is a [not the only] root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (v10). Money, whether paper or coin, itself, is not evil. Yet, money is power, which has subsequently gone to the heads of so many corporate “Church of God” splinter group leaders—now hirelings. Proper respect for money—for the good it can do—is great. But inordinate lust for it leads to heresy, compromise, lying, stealing, cheating, disorganized confusion, and discontent in family and the church. We are all admonished of our true duty in life: “…flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness… not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life” (1 Tim. 6:11, 17-19). We should all be willing to share and use our prosperity for good while we are able in this temporary and uncertain existence. By contrast, God’s way to everlasting life is certain and permanent!
The lesson Paul learned and is sharing is also spelled out in Phil. 4:11-12: “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” Paul learned to be content whether poor and penniless or with abundance. Yet, he recognized the source of it all and continually gave God thanks in every circumstance (Luke 3:11-14)!
Are we content with what we have (1 Tim. 6:6-8)? Are we satisfied with the necessities of life (Heb. 13:5)? Or is it never enough? If not, how much do you think it would take? We need to recognize that human nature is never satisfied and the spiraling incomes of today prove the outcry will always be "more!" What people think will be satisfactory often depends on what rung of the financial ladder they are hanging from at that moment. The deluding concept that materialism is an end in itself is totally empty. Luxuries are merely the fringe benefits, which God intends for those who have become successful. In the end, character is king! Seeking to acquire things merely to satiate the soul will leave us ultimately empty. It is vanity! Just ask the wisest and one of the richest men who ever lived. He will answer you in the book of Ecclesiastes. It’s a real eye-opener! King Solomon had everything. He did everything. He was a man in search of the eternal “buzz.” Yet, in the end, he proved he had nothing but a handful of wind. Are you content?
Comments