I find it fascinating that Paul doesn’t say “command those who are rich in this present world not to be rich.”  Obviously, he doesn’t believe there is anything inherently wrong with being rich.  However, he does give us instructions on how we should behave as rich people.  He goes on to say we shouldn’t be arrogant or put our hope in our wealth because wealth is so uncertain.  Pride is a constant danger with riches. It is very easy to believe that we are more because we have more than another man has.  Paul is saying that is simply not true.  Wealth is uncertain, but God is not which is why he goes on to tell us to put our hope in God.  God knows our tendency to trust in riches instead of in Him. He guards us against this danger because He wants us to trust in that which is most certain – in Him and not in uncertain riches. 

In verse 18, he teaches us how to behave rich.  He instructs us to be “rich in good deeds.”  This isn’t average American good.  This is rich good.  Many think the main reason for giving unto the Lord is because the church needs money. No. The most important reason to give is because you need to be a giver. It is God’s way of guarding you against greed and trust in uncertain riches. God will provide for His work even if you do not give; but what will happen to you?  When you commit to give, it’s easier to keep your lifestyle in check.

Jesus said you can’t serve God and money.  He could have said “you can’t serve God and the devil.”  But, he chose to say money.  That tells me that money is the number one competitor for our hearts.  One of the best ways to extinguish the fire that money can burn in our hearts is to choose a lifestyle that is consistent with what God would have us live. 

Paul finishes by saying that we need to focus on the eternal instead of the temporary.   Paul’s idea is to Timothy: Leave the pursuit of money aside and be content with your work as a minister of the gospel. Your hand is not big enough to lay hold of two things. Therefore, since you can only have one, see that it is the vital thing. Lay hold on eternal life.

Maybe you have found yourself getting caught by lifestyle creep and you haven’t been able to share the way you want to.  Make choices now that will have an impact not only in this life, but in the coming age.

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Steve Scalici, CFP® is the Senior Vice President of Treasure Coast Financial, located in South Florida. You can contact Steve at mailtsteve@tcfin.com or 772-600-1053.  Steve is a registered representative of INVEST Financial Corporation.  The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of INVEST Financial Corporation.