TRUST IN THE LIVING GOD. 1st Timothy 6:17. Another charge is the command to give to those who are wealthy. Being rich brings with it many problems and great responsibilities. Pride and arrogance tend to come with wealth and success. Excessive dependence on wealth is a danger that can remove spiritual joy and gracious service for the Lord and His people. Riches may be taken away because the Lord gives and can take them away. We have much more to enjoy than only what we can buy. Good works, benevolent giving, and passing on what we have for good purposes lays up treasures in heaven, our Lord Jesus said.
What we are called to do is to use trust. Our duty is to practice trust. Foolish talk and human opinions are not in line with "the faith." A final admonition is given to the rich, not because being rich is wrong, but because there are serious perils associated with riches. Arrogance and misplaced trust are significant dangers for the wealthy. We will not take our earthly wealth with us when we die. There is a proper way to use our wealth. When we contribute what we have to help others, we must be responsible for placing it where it is needed most.
There is no merit in possessing material goods or even using them. What matters is the motive behind how we use what we have. The true value of using our material possessions lies in the faith they demonstrate. Responding to the known needs of others shows our personal gratitude for God's grace extended to us. When a believer learns early in the Christian walk the importance of giving to God, they will give a portion of what they receive from Him. This teaches the value of supporting the Lord's work and sharing in the fellowship of those reaching others with the Gospel. We invest in eternal treasures when we lay up treasures in heaven.
Many things try to claim our trust: friends, foes, and even money. However, the wise person will realize he should not trust any of these things without careful thought. All of these will pass, but they are temporary, and we cannot trust any of them completely. On the other hand, the Living God is there forever for us, and we can trust Him wholeheartedly.
He provides the air we breathe so we can live each day. He is the Source of the beauty around us that sustains us on our journey. The food we eat all comes from Him, including the ability to digest it. He controls the sun and moon, which are set in place to give us rest. The ability to move about, work, rest, and sleep comes from the Living God, who keeps us safe from evil forces and temptations that surround us. He allows us to approach Him by faith; this place is hallowed ground.
There are those whom the Living God has allowed to acquire riches in this world. Even for the wealthy, the banner of love assures them that God shows no favoritism. They should not put their trust in temporary possessions but instead rely on the Living God and everything it involves. Such trust keeps our minds focused on what pleases the Lord. When we trust in the Living God, our lives are guided by His Word. The riches God may entrust to us are meant for a higher purpose than selfish pursuits or temptations.
God’s grace reaches all people, no matter their social status. Everyone is called to trust in the Living God in every situation. God Himself will accomplish the purpose of His sovereign will. He can take from the rich and give to the poor.