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;
In light of all
that, of the amazing and awesome and only God, command others (in confidence)
who are rich in this world (on this earth) that they be not prideful and
highminded and that they not place their trust in their uncertain and perishing
riches. But charge them, yea extol them to place their trust in the living God!
The God who gives us all things richly to enjoy! God gives us so many different
kinds of food to enjoy. He gives us land, animals, jobs, businesses, families
and possessions to enjoy! God gives us emotions and feelings to enjoy! God even
gives us sex to enjoy in marriage! All these things need to be guarded by
balance; however, for our God is good and not an evil king who let us ruin
ourselves by being ruled by our own lusts. No, the possessions, beauties of
this world, food, and relationships all have a proper place. Emotions and
feelings, while good, also have their place and must not be idolized. And sex,
it is a good thing, but God has created it within the bonds of marriage alone
to be enjoyed passionately and exuberantly!
O young
Timothy, charge them to do good so that they will be rich in good works and
ready and able to distribute to the needs of others. That they may give and not
hoard; that they may be free and not in bondage. O charge them to be willing to
communicate, to talk, to preach, to love, to listen, to embrace, to walk
alongside!
1 Tim 6:17-18 (KJV)
