Generosity as an Inheritance
“Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.”
In 1 Timothy, the Apostle Paul doesn’t hold back in clearly outlining what our money is for. Paul challenges the human tendency to trust in our own capacity for control and comfort. This is so often expressed in having enough financial resources, or hoping for a “one day” in the future when we will feel happy and secure once we have a certain amount in the bank (we’ve all daydreamed about winning lotto or coming into a large sum of money).
Paul reminds us that money is a better servant than a master and that we find truer satisfaction as we use it to further the Kingdom of Heaven. As co-heirs with Christ, our inheritance is not just in some unseen spiritual world but very much grounded in the day-to-day realities of life. Paul's words remind us that all blessings are intended not to be hoarded but shared - as we imitate our Saviour in bringing blessing to the world.
Today, reflect on your inheritance in Christ. Consider how your resources, whether material or otherwise, can be used to bless others. Embrace the call to live generously, recognising that your inheritance empowers you to be a source of goodness in the world. How can your generosity reflect the richness of your inheritance in Christ, becoming a tangible expression of God's love and provision in the lives of those around you?
How does using your resources for good works align with the idea of inheritance? In what ways can your generosity be a testament to the richness of your inheritance in Christ?