In concluding our recent study of First Timothy, it was striking to study the difference between greed and godly contentment in the lives of God’s people. It is possible as Christians to have misplaced priorities, even unintentionally. In our nation and culture, it is possible, even with the best intentions, to fail in our contentment. Here are some of the words of Paul to Timothy as he closes the letter:
1 Timothy 6:6-10 – But godliness actually is a means of great gain, when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into this world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. And if we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evils, and some by aspiring to it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
1 Timothy 6:17-18 – Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty or to set their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all good things to enjoy. Command them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.
The commands to the rich are not difficult to understand from these inspired writings of Paul. However, it can be difficult to be content and to avoid the sin of greed. Notice the contrast in verse 9 and the striking words to those who “want to get rich.” There is a definite sense of greed in this passage. The question then becomes, “How can I overcome the sin of greed?” Here are four simple suggestions:
1. Remember that all things have been supplied by God (6:17). It is God who richly supplies us with all good things to enjoy (James 1:17). We are not here to accumulate our things; we made nothing! It is God who made it all (Psalm 104:24).
2. Never fail to be thankful. Greed has a way of diminishing gratitude. We can be so busy focusing on the material that we forget God who has richly supplied all for us to enjoy. Thank God for all you possess (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
3. Remember life is about more than material possessions. Continuing in 1 Timothy 6:19, Paul reminds the rich to “take hold of that which is life indeed.” We brought nothing in and we are taking nothing out. The rich fool was not rich toward God and it cost him his soul (Luke 12:15). Remember that Jesus has saved you and treasure that lasts is that which is laid up in heaven (Matthew 6:20).
4. Determine to give sacrificially to God. Greed looks to accumulate and hold onto the material. Generosity looks to use the blessings from God to share with others (6:18). God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). He will punish the greedy, but reward the generous!
– Adam Orr
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