We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

— 1 Timothy 6:7-8

Books about how to get rich fill the shelves of bookstores and are bought up quickly. The main idea is that money can give us security and happiness. Some people preach that message in their churches too. But that is not the message of Christ and the Bible.

People who want only to pursue riches fall into temptation and end up tormenting themselves. Many have strayed from faith in their unchecked greed.

In contrast, the apostle Paul testifies that godliness accompanied by contentment is great gain. When we have enough to eat and clothes to wear, we can be content. Our happiness and our security are not in money but in God.

Is it bad, then, to have wealth? That is not what the apostle is saying. Money in itself is not bad. But “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” This is a helpful warning to believers who have been materially blessed.

Paul urges the rich not to trust in the instability of riches, but in God. Money can be good when we own it, but not when it owns us. Money is a good servant, but it’s a bad master. We can use money to bring happiness when we distribute it generously and wisely, but not if we greedily withhold it or keep it for ourselves.

Lord, help us to be content with having our needs supplied. And help us to share from the abundance you have given so that others too may be blessed—and praise you! Amen.