1 Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
1 Timothy 6:17
Paul instructs Timothy to counsel the rich in this present world. “Charge them that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy.” The church in Ephesus included wealthy patrons whose status could breed pride or miserliness. “Uncertain riches” points to the volatility of wealth—markets, crops, ships, political risk. The contrast is not wealth itself but trust. God’s character is the sure foundation: “the living God” who generously provides all things that are enjoyed with gratitude and stewardship. The instruction balances generosity with responsible stewardship, avoiding cynicism toward wealth, while warning against material security as ultimate.
The passage foregrounds trust as a spiritual barometer: where is one’s ultimate security? It links wealth to spiritual attitudes—humility vs. arrogance, dependence vs. self-reliance. It underscores God as the giver who enables enjoyment, not merely a distant deity. This aligns with biblical themes of stewarding wealth for God’s purposes, and it counters the prosperity gospel’s distortions by anchoring abundance in God’s benevolent character while warning against allowing money to displace faith.
Practical steps:
- Reassess financial priorities through a kingdom lens: budgeting for generosity and ministry.
- Practice generosity beyond obligation: give to causes that advance justice, education, or mercy.
- Develop grateful, contented living: recognize that wealth is a tool, not a trophy.
- Beware of status symbols: let humility govern how you dress, speak, and treat others.
- Teach children and peers to view money as stewardship, not identity.
Cross-References: Proverbs 11:28; Matthew 6:19-21; James 5:1-5; Deuteronomy 8:17-18; 1 Timothy 6:10