Willing to Share?

Good Morning,

1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NIV)
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.

In these verses Paul is giving direction and instruction to Timothy on some things that he ought to be doing as a leader in the Church; as one who will preach and teach the Word and words of God. Maybe we don't remember this fact, I don't know for sure. But it seems that many of us who have been given the task of presenting the Gospels and the Epistles have glossed over a few of the things which are in them.

So, Paul tells Timothy that he, Timothy, is to "command" (... you notice he didn't say 'suggest' or 'consider' or any other less forceful word here ...) folks who are what Paul called rich, those better off financially than the common people, not to be arrogant and not to put their hopes in their wealth. He points out that earthly wealth is uncertain (did he know about this time we're going through, I wonder?). He tells Timothy to remind them to "put their hope in God."

Now, Paul goes on to issue another "command" in these verses. Those wealthy people are commanded to do good and to be generous and to be "willing to share." Unfortunately, those to whom these words are most directed...those leaders, preachers, teachers, and such in the Church...seem to have forgotten to issue said commands. But then, well, perhaps it's not politically correct to do such things in this day and age maybe? Maybe, it's not such a good idea to speak to the wealthy among us in such ways (I mean, SHARE the wealth??? Come on!) But, look, here it is in the Bible. It's not like someone has made it up out of thin air. These are God's words to us, written by the pen of Paul. So, I guess we really should pay attention when we see the word "command", don't you think?

Paul also mentions that this doing of good, generosity, and willingness to share do NOT go unrewarded. Paul tells us "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." These are strong words. This is a huge and great reward for doing the right things. What greater "wealth" or "riches" could someone want that to be assured of the treasure that awaits obedient servants in heaven?

Yes, these really are pretty strong words that Paul penned. He sent the letter to Timothy so he would be sure to preach that which God set down through Paul, yes, but these words, I believe, were also meant for all the ages to come, as well. Let's don't shirk our responsibilities in this area of direction and correction. I know that these kinds of thoughts and teachings are not popular to some. I'm aware that being reminded of these kinds of ideas will anger others. Yes, there are those who will take offense and tell us to mind our own business about their affairs. All I can say about these reactions and the problems that may arise because of them is, when we obey, there are always consequences. Some are very, very good...being obedient to God is ALWAYS a good thing and is ALWAYS rewarded. Some of them...not so much, as happens when one upsets folks. Especially in their pocketbooks. Kind of goes with the territory, you know?

Let none of us ever be afraid to teach what God put into His Word. It is what we're supposed to do.

Love, peace, and blessings,

David