In his 1st letter to Timothy, Paul, the apostle, says,
“…godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. (1 Timothy 6:6-12)
Several verses later he addresses “them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate [or share]; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19)
Among other things, the exhortation is for those that are rich, to be rich in good works.
And so getting back to being content, we read these words attributed to King Solomon, perhaps the wisest man to ever live – “Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.” (Proverbs 23:4-5)
There’s nothing wrong with money, but, as the scripture says, it is the love of money that can lead to problems and affect our relationship with God. A person’s wealth should be kept in proper perspective and allowed to be used for God’s purposes and glory.
Furthermore, in Hebrews 13:5, we read, “Let your conversation [or conduct] be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5)
In Philippians, Paul says “…I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. (Philippians 4:11) Then two verses later he says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Paul was able to handle any circumstance or situation he found himself in, not because of his own strength, but that of the Lord Jesus Christ.
And finally, towards the end of the chapter he says, “…my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Philippines 4:19)
We can surely rely on God for all our needs.
We are reminded of the Psalmist who said, “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” (Psalm 37:25)
God always provides for his own.
Similarly to 1 Timothy 6:7, Ecclesiastes 5:15 says , “As he came forth of his mother’s womb, naked shall he return to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which he may carry away in his hand.”
None of us, when we die, is going to take any of our possessions or wealth with us; it will all be left behind.
Should one want to pursue a lucrative career path, that is perfectly fine, provided there is nothing immoral, illegal or unethical about it, and that it is not in conflict with the Word of God.
There are many wealthy people in the world who “trust in the living God,” as Paul says. Whether rich or poor, however, as stewards we will all be held accountable for what we do with what God has given us.
There is so much talk out there about building wealth. Sometimes we wish we had more…
Nevertheless, regardless of our financial status, might we be content, as Paul states, and “…follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.”
Finally, we notice that “lay hold on eternal life” is mentioned twice in this chapter.
What does that mean?
To lay hold of eternal life is to embrace eternal life and its fullness. It’s not just about knowing that we are on our way to heaven, but, more than that, it encompasses the expanse of the life we have in Christ.
We conclude with these two passages:
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection [or mind] on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:1-4)