“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; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life” (1 Timothy 6:17-19).
Paul most certainly is not teaching that salvation comes by good works. Rather, this “lay hold on eternal life” is to be understood that Paul was encouraging believers to put their resources to good work, to be generous and share with others. This would help them to lay hold on true life worth living now and eternally with Christ. “I can’t take it with me, Pastor,” she said rather adamantly. “I know I need to be careful and wise as a good steward. But I love sharing now while I am still alive and not waiting until I am gone,” she said with certainty. “Most folks don’t know where the gift came from, and I want you to keep it that way, okay, Pastor?” and with that she once again made her pastor well aware that she knew what she was doing, and she was blessed because of it.
For today: If someone were to read through your checkbook registry, how much of your resources would they find being put to good work in light of eternity?