Wouldn’t you like to have a fresh start with your finances? A clean slate on your debt? A full folder of generous giving? Less anxiety about the whole issue of money? Check out today’s passage.

1 Timothy 6:17-19
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.

Money is not inherently evil. In fact, it is necessary to live. Having money—even lots of money—is not unspiritual. God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” Money provides food, shelter, and clothes for our families. Money allows us to raise our children with many enriching experiences. Money puts missionaries in strategic places around the world and provides worship opportunities for local communities. Ministries at home and abroad are funded by…money. Money is a great thing to have…but a devastating thing to worship.

In today’s passage, Paul addresses the “rich in this present age.” He does not attack them; he instructs them. Paul knew sinful hearts could twist God’s good blessings into a dangerous form. Paul knew that wealth walks a fine line between being used for things that are great and being served as a god. He knew that just on the other side of possessions was pride and discontentment. Money can numb the soul.

So, the instruction for the rich is to “do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” This is the blueprint for a “good foundation for the future.” Many will use money for selfish gain to “live it up,” but God tells us to live it down…digging deep for a firm foundation that produces eternal treasures. That’s the investment of money that allows us to “take hold of that which is truly life.” A fresh start calls for a financial strategy based on God’s Word

Father, thank you for the gracious provision of money. Thank you for the material blessings that enable us to live and provide for our families. But Father, don’t allow us to turn your provisions into pride. Don’t allow us to turn your generosity into greed. Don’t allow us to worship wealth. Don’t allow us to build our lives on a weak and uncertain foundation of portfolios. Help us to heed your warning, follow your commands, and live invested in the things that last forever. In Jesus’ name. Amen.