** PERSONAL QUESTIONS & BIBLICAL ANSWERS ** ~ Which Is Better, Spiritually Speaking - To Be Rich Or Poor ? ~ (Deu 8:10-18) ~ The relationship between spirtuality and wealth in the Bible is complicated. On the one hand, riches can be a sign of Gods blessing (Ge 24:35; Dt 8:18), while poverty can symbolize divine judgment (Jer 8:10, 13). Abraham, Isaac and jacob were Gods friends and were very wealthy - as was Job one of the most Godly figures of the Old Testament. David, a man after Gods own heart (1Sa 13:13-14), was also very rich. On the other hand, the luxuries and benefits wealth afforded altered Solomons early devotion to God (1Ki 11:4). Through the prophet Amos, God blamed wealth for leading Israel into idolatry and moral decay (Am 3:13 - 4:1). On a number of occasions, Jesus spoke harshly about the rich who ignored God and the poor (Lk 12:13-21) and compromised their commitment to God (Mt 19:16-23). Jesus declared that the love of wealth can steal hearts away from God (Mt 6:24). Paul told Timothy to warn people about the temptations of wealth (1Ti 6:6-10, 17-19), and James wrote stern words on the same topic (Jas 2:5-7). It cant be said that people who are poor are necessarily in a better spiritual condition than those who are rich. Rather our spiritual health depends on how we steward our blessings, and serve God and others with them. The Bible commands, Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth ... But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven (Mt 6:19-20). We are to work so that we will have resources to share with those who are poor (Eph 4:28). We are also to give quietly, generously, thoughtfully and cheerfully (Mt 6:3; 2Co 9:6-7). Amen & Amen
Posted on: Wed, 09 Jul 2014 17:07:49 +0000
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