1 Timothy 6:17-19
Command those who are rich in this present age 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.
Money is merely one tool that God uses to build His kingdom and to bless people. He also uses His Word (Scripture), and things like kind words, hard earned knowledge and wisdom, warm embraces, heart-felt presents, and even the weather. But money is important. For some people, it is too important, and can be strongly sought after at the expense of more pressing matters. This can be negative or even dangerous.
Wealth, and the use of material goods are one of the most discussed topics in the Bible. God’s economy runs on spiritual principles, and involves wisdom, truth and love. These money principles are prevalent in the book of Proverbs in the Old Testament, and the gospels of Matthew and Luke in the New Testament. God often works through people to supply needs, and to bring about His plans. Scripture clearly shows that God uses who He desires, whether they know Him or not. But there are great benefits for His born-again children, who seek His will.
We all need to care for ourselves and our families. We should also look toward the future and try to save. But making decisions independent of our Maker brings limited results for our lives. When life’s storms, difficulties and times of uncertainty come, things may crash!
For the child of God, however, sincerely seeking after Him, the Lord can teach and guide them, and build in them a caring and giving heart; growing in faith. They see Him blessing them and working through them, and learn His ways. Their heavenly Father understands every aspect of their life, and in His plan for them can achieve increasingly more. God owns everything, and can give to whom He wishes, for themself or to pass on to others. But He must trust them. Proven character, understanding and obedience brings such trust. They have to become a good steward.
The mature child of God follows through with God’s directions, whether it involves money or it doesn’t. The Lord moves in love and righteousness at all times, rejecting every form of evil. Governments, organizations, families and individuals may compromise on truth, but God never will.
God’s love is there for all who depend on Him. He loves those who love Him, and will walk closely in tandem with them. If we trust and seek God in faith, He will not only bring positive effects for us, but also as possible, for anyone connected in any way to our financial dealings. God is generous and is also wise. He will fulfill His plans in the calling He has given us, as we work together in this world. When God’s guidance and ways are followed, the depth and reach of effect into eternity is also far beyond what we can imagine.
Selfish and worldly pursuits, instead of God’s leading and ways, can bring poverty and leanness of spirit. Ill-gotten gain, or increase through playing the world’s system, will dwindle, or in the end be given to the righteous. God cannot bless selfishness or evil. We must build money for every pure and perfect pursuit, in the Lord’s guidance.
You may have experienced financial stress, but you can also receive the Lord’s tender provisions. And at times you can have the privilege of being used by the Lord to bless others. Seeking God, and learning His ways, attempting to please Him, is the rich life. Many blessings come to God’s children!
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to commit your life to God through Jesus Christ and start on this wonderful path. We all can discover who God really is as He leads us, and become more who He made us to be as He brings us close to Him. Have you experienced God’s intense, yet beautiful love for you? And has He given out his love to others through you, maybe indeed through needed money? God is ready to meet our every need, and release us into an abundant life, getting closer to Him whilst we act as His hands and feet to bring specific blessings to others.
God must be first, not money!
Other Scripture
Proverbs 13:11
1 Timothy 6:10