Charge to the Rich

1 Timothy 6:17-19  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;  (18)  That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;  (19)  Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

Timothy received his charge and now he is to charge those in the church that have riches in this world not to be proud over what they have or but their trust in confidence in "uncertain" riches of the world. Our trust and confidence is not in silver and gold, but the living God.

Paul is using a chiastic structure in this passage.

A. Treasure in this world
        B. Confidence in uncertain riches now
               C. God richly gives
               C. Be rich in good works, ready to give
        B. A good foundation in the time to come
A. Treasure in Heaven

Those who have possessions now are tempted to be proud over what they have and trust their money, retirement, and investments keeps them safe. But it is God who gives us what we have. God doesn't give us what we have so that we would trust in them, but enjoy them. Money and possessions are wonderful tools but terrible masters. God richly gives us all things, and those to whom God has made rich by richly giving need to be rich in good works by giving themselves. God owns everything, and freely and richly gives. We ought to be like our Father and ready to richly give as well. Strive to be rich in good works. Doing so is an investment for the world to come. Laying up treasures in Heaven and laying hold on eternal life.