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Read: 1 Timothy 6:17-19 
Listen: 1 Timothy 6

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17

Paul writes a letter to encourage and equip his young protégé Timothy, who lives and ministers in the large metropolis of Ephesus. In that day, Ephesus was an affluent city where residents could buy goods imported from around the world. Paul wants Timothy to remind the Ephesian church that they are free to enjoy the many good gifts God has provided them, but they need to guard their hearts and their hopes. Though it’s natural to put one’s confidence in material possessions or blessings, followers of Jesus should put their hope in God.

The same challenge for Timothy’s first-century audience is a challenge for us today. Placing our hope in wealth means we’re confident in what money or possessions can do for us. The problem is that trust in money is incompatible with trust in God. In the end, it yields discontentment and anxiety. While we may use and even grow our wealth, it should involve a healthy overflow of generosity and gratitude as we trust God. A key step in our spiritual health is to regularly take inventory of our relationship with money, which is the true competition for our hearts.

TODAY: Express thanks to God for the wealth and gifts he has given you. Gratitude is at the center of a heart rightly tuned to God, so take time to give him thanks for who he is and all he has done.