We have been conditioned by society to build wealth so that we can have an easier time of things in this world. We have been told and shown that the life of great things will make us happy and that we are making things better for ourselves. Well, it does not remain.
“12Man in his pomp will not remain;
he is like the beasts that perish.”
— Psalm 49:12 (ESV)
You see, all that is gathered in this world is only for this world. We cannot/do not get to take it with us to the next. It is something that is useful in this world alone and only those who do not have will see and want what they have. Yet they are blinded by their “riches” and do not see the fault in it all.
Now, I am not saying that wealth is always getting in the way of righteousness and cannot be used for God’s good work. Just the opposite. God provides for His people to do the work He has for them. Using wealth to do His work is certainly in the cards for some. I am not one of them, but I do know that the LORD has and will continue to use those with wealth for the advancement of the gospel, and that is not always in the form of provided monetary gifts to others.
Think of those who provide financial backing for those who are spreading the gospel. Those spreading are not building homes and schools and churches, they were given the opportunity to preach and teach through the generosity of another. We tend to see things in this world from a tangible perspective and miss opportunities to simply provide the way for someone. Like those who provide scholarships for youths to attend Christian summer camp. Monetary wealth can and should be used for His good works.
When kept with the self, the riches of this world are of no use. Yes, they may provide some momentary relief from a difficult situation or in some cases provide a lavish lifestyle. But, it will not remain with you once you leave this world and does not improve your station in the next. Where real wealth is found and is beneficial in your life is in the use of that financial wealth to support others in their ability to have their spiritual needs met.
What is your thoughts on financial well being? Are you one to seek it out for your own lavish lifestyle? What if you realized it cannot be taken with you and instead you use it for the advancement of the gospel?
Trevor's Thoughts 