6 Things Christians Should Do With MoneyНамуна

Day 1: Rich Christians Are Given An Admonition

In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul tells Timothy to give rich Christians an admonition:

“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” (1 Timothy 6:17-19 ESV)

I really appreciate that the New Testament gives specific instructions for those of us who are wealthy. And if you haven’t figured it out by now, you probably fit in the category of being wealthy. The truth is, if you’re reading this on a smartphone or a computer, you’re most likely wealthier than most Christians in the world.

In fact, according to HowRichAmI.org, if you are at the poverty line in the US ($12,760 annual salary), you are wealthier than 83% of the rest of the world.

Yet, most of us don’t feel that way because most of us in the developed world are surrounded by so much wealth and extravagance. 

But the fact remains that when Paul was writing to those he called “rich in this present age,” he was probably talking to a group more like us than we probably realized. 

Over the next few days, we’ll take a closer look at each section of this portion of scripture to see what we, as wealthy Christians, should be doing with our money. 

Before we start, let me remind you to really ask God to search your heart as you read these things. Don’t dismiss the questions because your brain knows what your answer should be. But instead, invite God in to purify your heart so that we can become the pure bride Jesus is coming back for! There is no condemnation in Christ. But there are infinite levels of freedom available! 

OK, let’s dive in and start with the first part: Don’t be haughty.

“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty,”

Haughtiness is defined by Merriam Webster as “blatantly and disdainfully proud.” It essentially points to a stereotypical rich snob who feels they have more self-worth than others because they have more net worth than others.

I have never intentionally been haughty. But when I allow the freedom that comes with humility, I can see some of it in my own life. That is when I allow the Holy Spirit to work in me and clean out the things that don’t belong.

So let’s pray: Lord, if there is any haughtiness in my heart, I ask you to bring it to the light and show me how I can change to bring you glory. Everything I have is from you and for you and to you. Give me the proper perspective of myself and others. I pray for forgiveness and grace to move forward in humility and kindness, knowing our true worth comes from you. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.