“Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.” 1 Timothy 6:17

Real Riches

We didn’t have extra money when I was growing up. My dad worked and my mom stayed home to raise the kids, as was the norm in the 1950’s. We lived in a small house among dozens of neighboring houses just like ours. Kids played everywhere—in front yards, on sidewalks, down at the schoolyard. My mom, like all the other moms, stretched the dollars by trading skills with others; the abundance of one met the needs of others. Somehow, we all made it.

My mom knew something we all need to know—riches and money aren’t the same thing.

God gives us richly ALL THINGS to enjoy. This statement begs the question: what exactly did He give us to enjoy? Looking beyond the obvious answer (His Son and all that He brings), think of all the “dailies”—the things that fill our days that we don’t even think about as a gift. He gives us variety in generous portions—something for everyone, every taste, every personality, every geographic and cultural locale, every nation.

He gives sights to enjoy: colors, smiles, grandeur, simplicity, seasons.

He gives tastes to enjoy: sweets, sours, savories, and salties.

He gives smells to enjoy: flowers, foods, rain, mown grass.

He gives sounds to enjoy: music, voices, waters, babies’ laughter.

He gives touch to enjoy: hugs, softness, lips, fingertips.

All this, and so much more:

Thoughts, dreams, memories, yearnings.

Insights, wisdom, creativity, wonder.

Experience, age, satisfaction, overflow, joy.

Shadows and shade, dawn and twilight.

Gifts, talents, abilities, capacities.

Growth, comfort, usefulness, purpose.

All these gifts, plus the gifts of the Holy Spirit, plus our adoption, redemption, salvation, inheritance, healing, presence, tender love, kindness, and eternity. All this, plus so much else—all given by God for us to enjoy.

How we cheapen riches by thinking it is money and material goods!

“Father, forgive us for cheapening Your gifts. Open our hearts to fully appreciate all You have given, and may we enjoy Your generosity with a thankful heart. Amen.”