This is the what I've been thinking on all week so far...
"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. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life."
(from Paul's first letter to his boy Timothy... <6:17-19>)
& these are some of my thoughts so far...
- 1st thing I noticed was that Paul is definitely making a distinction on purpose with the phrase "in this present world." i.e. - that's the only time being rich really counts! it's just for now... just for a few years...
- & MAYBE for not as long as you think because it is "SO UNCERTAIN" WOW! is that not so crazy relevant for TODAY with all the economic uncertainty? man, for being so old this letter is right on for right now. who would've guessed it?
- I would put EVERYONE reading this blog in the category of RICH! no doubt & you probably shouldn't argue. If you have internet access you are freaking rich! if you have a car, a roof, clothes, and clean water you are richer than the majority of the world. so, the commands for the rich are for YOU and ME!
- looks like 7 commands to the rich = you & me...
1 - don't be arrogant
2 - don't put your hope in wealth
3 - put your hope in God
4 - do good
5 - be rich in good deeds
6 - be generous
7 - be willing to share
Obviously some of these are synonyms & could probably be combined into like 4 things, but I like to see them all separate.
We're talking about it at community group tonight along with Rob Bell's "Rich"... so more thoughts really soon...
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2 comments:
You know I looked at these verses again and for me I even think the rich Paul is talking about not even being monetary but rich in the world's ways (maybe I am reading it out of context) but I think you could be rich on just how your actions are and where your eyes are set in this world.. I also liked the key word "present" world ..people become so self indulgent and arrogant that they think this is their heaven(and act rich) when it's really hell, compared to the everlasting riches we will have in Heaven
Great thoughts bro! I need to be reading this next time I feel the need to buy something!!! And dave ramsey could put this word for word in his program!!!
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