“God bestows riches upon some, not that they may possess the means of debasing themselves by luxury, while others around them are pinched by hunger and want, but that they may have wherewith to give to them that have need.”
Thomas Young (1587-1655) Scottish Puritan preacher in Day’s Collacon compiled and arranged by Edward Parsons Day (New York: IPPO, 1884) 534.
Paul instructs Timothy to command the rich to “enjoy and share” material blessings (cf. 1 Timothy 6:17-19). Sadly, the statistics seem to show in our nation that the more money we make, the less generous we become. What is needed is more than a change of behavior. We need a change of heart.
Father in Heaven, forgive us for debasing ourselves by luxury rather than demonstrating Christian generosity. By your Holy Spirit, remake us to become known for enjoying and sharing material blessings so that the world may know of your generous love. Do this we pray in the name of Jesus, Amen.