Timothy 6:17
"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."
The Apostle Paul is giving Timothy a command to pass on to those who are wealthy in this world. Today’s verse gives us a warning about wealth and teaches us where we should place our true hope.
First, Paul advises the rich not to be arrogant. When people possess wealth, they can easily become proud. There is a tendency to elevate one’s status or value through wealth, but the Bible clearly warns against this. When our identity or pride is based on wealth, it is fragile and can crumble easily. We must guard against the pride that comes from overestimating our position or abilities due to wealth.
Paul also tells them not to put their hope in wealth, which is uncertain. Earthly riches are not eternal. What seems to be present today can disappear tomorrow. Many people believe that wealth will provide them with security and a guaranteed future, but wealth is something that can vanish at any moment. Our hope should not be placed on such a fleeting and uncertain thing.
Furthermore, we should not place our hope in wealth that, at some point, will leave us. Instead, Paul emphasizes that we must place our hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. We must remember that "everything" includes even the material wealth of this world.
True hope is found only in God. God is the one who generously gives us all good things. Everything we enjoy comes from God’s grace. Neither wealth nor worldly possessions can be the source of our hope. It is God, who gives and allows us to enjoy these things, who must be our one and only hope.
A day full of grace has begun. Today, as you read, listen to, and meditate on God’s Word, may you not put your hope in the uncertain wealth of this world. Not only in material possessions but also in the eternal and perfect treasures of heaven, which God gives and allows us to enjoy. May you place your hope in God alone and have a truly blessed day.
I bless you over and over in the name of the Lord! Amen!
Everyone Church - P. Timothy Kim