1 Timothy 6:17-19

1 Timothy 6:17-19  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 today's passage, Paul does not castigate those who are rich; he merely says for them not to put their hope in wealth, for real security and enjoyment comes from the Lord and doing his will.  Individuals of means should share with the less fortunate.  Of course, all people should try to provide for themselves, but not all people are capable of making a sustainable living.  Many folks have to live from day-to-day and month-to-month.  This is the reality of economics and existence.  These people need to be cared for when they are in dire circumstances.  Our government tries to step in the gap, but governmental aid and laws are not always that flexible or just.  Therefore, the church and caring people need to fill in the gap when things become desperate for the destitute in society.  

For over two thousand years, the church of Jesus Christ has done just that.  The modern church as with the first church tends to look out for those who are oppressed by circumstances that are beyond their control.  As Christians we must always remember to fulfill that role in society and to show we are Christians by our love.  Otherwise, how can the love of God be in us.  If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?  (1 John 3:17)  In America, we have many institutions and organizations that try to help the poor, but still the needy often slip through the cracks.  Therefore, Christians always have to be ready to give cheerfully of their means to those who are less fortunate.  The Bible promises us that if we do, we lay up treasures in heaven: Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.  (Matthew 6:19-21)  

The significant question remains: Where is your heart?  Is it focused primarily on getting ahead in this world, or is it focused on God and his divine purposes?  If we are focused on God, we will display his love, and we will sacrifice ourselves for others.  We will do HIS WILL, not ours.  Jesus and his church fulfill Isaiah's prophesy: The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.  He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.  (Isaiah 61:1)  That is our mission, our privilege, our joy.  We are to do as the Holy Spirit directs, for we are the living body of Christ on Earth.