¹⁷Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. ¹⁸Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, ¹⁹storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.

In all places and throughout history, wealth paves the way for prominence and privilege. Not so in God’s economy. We have already seen that the “love of money is the root of all sorts of evil” (1 Tim. 6:10). The apostle Paul does not hesitate to warn the wealthy Christians about the temptations that accompany riches (see also, 2 Tim. 3:2, Heb. 13:5). His instruction can be outlined this way:

• Don’t become conceited. Other translations render this “haughty” or “arrogant.” Grace is the great leveler of people.
• Don’t rest on your wealth, for it is very insecure without God.
• Enjoy all things as gifts from God for our enjoyment. Money is not bad in itself and can benefit us, but it is not a secure foundation for building our lives.
• Focus on being rich in good works. This is a far better pursuit and a superior use of our time and energy.
• Be generous and share. The one given wealth should use his wealth for the benefit of others. All gifts given to us will become stale unless we channel those gifts to others.
• Build on a better foundation that prepares you for your eternal future. Wealth has no value for eternity when used solely for ourselves. Instead, investing in our spiritual future carries great dividends.
• Live the life God gives, not the life money gives. Life lived by our spiritual resources exceeds in value life that is built solely on one’s wealth.

Paul’s inclusion of this topic in his pastoral letter to Timothy suggests there were at least some wealthy Christians in Ephesus (where Timothy was ministering at the time). The fact that this teaching comes toward the end of the letter suggests that Paul intentionally does not give priority to addressing the wealthy. Wealth is merely one of the many topics that need addressing in the church. The first in the world’s eyes comes last in God’s eyes.

Lord, help me to use the resources You have entrusted to me for the good of Your people, and to be free from the love of those resources for my benefit.