ODJ: A Word to the Wealthy

July 24, 2017 

READ: 1 Timothy 6:17-19 

Tell [the rich] to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others (v.18).

When Robert Edmiston lost his job in the early 1970s, he used the money he received in severance pay to start International Motors. Edmiston went on to become one of the wealthiest business owners in the UK and one of the country’s most generous philanthropists. As a believer in Jesus, he felt compelled to use his wealth to start religious and educational charities that to this day bring hope to people around the world. With offices in Europe, Africa, North America, Latin America and Asia Pacific, Robert Edmiston has donated hundreds of millions of pounds since 1988.

As Bill Gates once said, “I believe that with great wealth comes great responsibility.” If this is the case, what does God expect from the rich?

The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy with clear instructions on how the wealthy should use their resources. He urged the “rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable.” He encouraged them instead to put their trust in God, “who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment” (1 Timothy 6:17).

Paul also encouraged Timothy to tell the rich “to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others” (v.18).

Having a grateful heart and a generous attitude isn’t reserved only for the wealthy. Paul’s words should resonate deeply in the heart of every believer in Jesus. We can all use whatever resources and talents God has blessed us with for the good of others. “This will lay a solid foundation for the future, so that [we] will know what true life is like” (v.19 cev).

—Ruth O’Reilly Smith

365-day plan: Matthew 17:24-18:6