Monday, October 9
For our enjoyment
Scripture: 1 Timothy 6
1 Timothy 6:17–19 Command those who are rich in this world’s goods not to be haughty or to set their hope on riches, which are uncertain, but on God who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment. 18 Tell them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous givers, sharing with others.19 In this way they will save up a treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the future and so lay hold of what is truly life.
Observation
Earlier in this chapter, Paul says that we should be content with food and shelter, and should avoid longing to be rich, for the love of money is the root of all evils (hyperbole). Strong words…
Balanced by v. 17-19. Here Paul says that God richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment. And that we are to use our wealth to do good, be generous and share with others, and so lay up a treasure in heaven and take hold of what is truly life.
Scripture is filled with these kinds of paradoxes (two seemingly opposite ideas which are both true). Beware of longing for money. But God gives us all things for our enjoyment. And if you have it, use it well.
Like most things, it comes down to our hearts. A greedy heart, always wanting more, is dangerous and can “plunge people into ruin and destruction” (6:9). On the other hand, if our hearts are God’s, He can give us all things to enjoy and to share. I think God loves to bless those with clean hearts and open hands. He wants us to enjoy life!
Application
Obviously, I want to keep my heart free from greed, the insatiable desire for more. I want to be content with what I have. That is not to say that I can’t improve my lot—I can. But it’s very easy in our culture to always be reaching for the next thing, the newest thing. It’s hard to be content, but there’s great joy in simplifying our desires.
And I want to enjoy what the Lord has given me and do good with it, be generous and share with others. I love the line that says God gives us all things for our enjoyment. He wants us to enjoy life!
Prayer: Lord, I love You and I’m grateful that You want me to enjoy life…and at the same time, be content and free from greed. Help me on all fronts!
More: Ezekiel 11-12, Psalm 117, Matthew 21