This Sunday’s message focuses on two parables Jesus shared concerning what wealthy people do with their possessions. Each parable carries a warning: beware of allowing wealth to function as an alternative “god” in your life; beware of neglecting your biblically rooted obligation to the poor; beware of the corrosive effects of unchecked greed on your soul. But these parables also invite positive actions: to share generously what you have; to love your neighbors in tangible ways; to be “rich toward God.”
Two other biblical texts that speak wisdom for believers enjoying a measure of prosperity are Deuteronomy 8:11-20 and 1 Timothy 6:17-19. In view of that wisdom, here are seven faithful responses in such seasons.
1. Remember your God, who is the giver of every good and perfect gift. One of the worst sins Moses warns against throughout Deuteronomy is forgetting God and disregarding his commands, which were given to bless and extend life.
2. Beware misattribution, the sin of giving credit for your successes and blessings to the wrong source. Moses warns the Israelites, “Do not say to yourself, ‘My power and the might of my own hand have gotten me this wealth. But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth…” The very abilities that enable your successes trace their origins to the generous grace of God.
3. Regularly express gratitude to God through praise, worship, and thanksgiving. Moses warns, “Do not exalt yourself” and Paul urges, “Do not be haughty.” The practice of reverent and regular worship is a spiritual discipline that reminds us of our place before God, combats unhealthy pride, and cultivates humility.
4. Closely monitor where your hope lies. Paul urges, “do not set your hope on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” When we place our hope in stuff, financial insecurities and fears lead us to stockpile or hoard more than we need.
5. Use your resources for good. Instead of asking for more blessings, be a blessing to others. Paul urges us to “do good” and to “be rich in good works.” God doesn’t expect us to help every need that comes along, but he does expect us to be ready to share when we can.
6. Seek out opportunities to share what you have. Paul’s exhortation for us to “be generous, and ready to share” is based on Jesus’ teaching that “it is more blessed to give than to receive.” Generosity is a habit that we can cultivate through practice.
7. Aspire to excel in the gift of giving. In 2 Corinthians 8:7, Paul urges the Corinthians to do just that. Look beyond yourself to the needs of others.
May we make the most of what opportunities we have been given to do good and share our blessings with others.
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