Hope Series Episode 4

Hope Series Episode 4

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Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1 Timothy 6:17

Hello, my walking friend! As you begin your walk today, take a little time to consider all the riches you have in this world. Whatever health you enjoy, relationships, creature comforts – all of it – take a moment to thank Jesus. Let your gratitude put a spring in your step.

Today is the 4th episode in the hope series and our verse to meditate on is 1 Timothy 6:17:
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

I think it’s human nature to feel a sense of security when we have plenty of money in our bank accounts, enough savings to comfortably retire, and enough creature comforts to live…well, comfortably. But if you live long enough, like I have…and no, I’m not going to tell you how long that is. Yes, we are walking friends, but I would need to get to know you a little better to divulge that information! Anyway, if you live long enough, you find out that this feeling of security can quickly turn to uncertainty. I mean, look at the U.S. economy. Since 1950, there have been 11 recessions. Over the years, how many of us have seen our savings dwindle, our retirement accounts and homes lose value, and the buying power of our paychecks diminish. Still, when times are good, it is easy to get overconfident in our earthly treasures and put our hope in wealth.

But Jesus tells us that this is foolishness. Remember his parable about the man whose storehouses were so full they were overflowing? He had to build bigger storehouses to contain and manage his wealth. He lived comfortably day to day and his future felt secure with so much in the farm bank. But Jesus said to him, “You fool! Tonight is the day I have ordained for you to leave this earth. So what good are all your riches? You should have been more concerned about riches in heaven.”

It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of material possessions, isn’t it? Jesus knows that about us and that is why he warned us and why the Apostle Paul was inspired to caution Timothy. It’s not that Jesus doesn’t want us to have material possessions, after all, the verse says God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. But there it is…God provides. He wants us to look to him to provide. He wants us to put our trust and hope in him…not in the things of this world.
C.S. Lewis once said, “Prosperity knits a man to the world. He feels that he is ‘finding his place in it,’ while really it is finding its place in him.”

Isn’t it thought-provoking? The pursuit of wealth can easily tie us to this world, making us believe that it’s where our true fulfillment lies. However, true hope can only be found in God, not in fleeting material possessions.

I know that, at least for me, relaxing in Jesus about finances and the future isn’t always easy. In fact, in times of uncertainty, it’s easy to worry about the future. But Corrie ten Boom said, “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” We know Jesus. We know he is trustworthy and good and loving and kind. Take a moment to let that sink in. Jesus knows our needs and takes care of us. So, let’s surrender our worries and put our hope in his unwavering faithfulness. Earthly wealth is uncertain, but our hope in God is unshakable.

Now let’s take a little time to meditate on today’s verse, 1 Timothy 6:17:
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

You are now at the halfway point of your walk. If you need to be back in 10 minutes, this would be the time to turn around and head back.

The second half of our walk is an opportunity for reflection, meditation, and prayer. For many of us, myself included, this might feel challenging. But the spiritual rewards, and transformation, that come from developing this discipline is great and so is the power of the Holy Spirit to help us. So let’s start with some questions that will guide you in the process of reflection.

In what ways has God provided for you physically, spiritually, and emotionally? How has that helped strengthened your faith and hope in him? Take some time to consider your answer now.

Does the hope that you have in God’s provision help you be a good steward with all he has blessed you with?

Are you tempted to put your hope in your material wealth? What can help you have a heavenly mindset about your earthly wealth?

Now let’s listen to today’s verse one last time: 1 Timothy 6:17:
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

Is there anything else you would like to talk to Jesus about? Anything going on in your life? Remember he is right there with you, walking with you, and he is eager for you to share all that is on your heart and mind with him. Take some time to talk to him now.

Now I am going to pray for us:
Dear Jesus,
Forgive me when I put my hope in earthly things. I know from experience that there is so much uncertainty with wealth. It comes and it goes. Help me be like the Apostle Paul and learn to be content when I have much or when I have little, because the most important thing is I have you. Give me wisdom, Jesus, to prioritize heavenly riches over earthly ones. Let me never take for granted the hope that I have in you, my Savior. Remind me that whatever I enjoy here can never compare to your glorious riches. Thank you, Jesus, for loving me so much that you want the best for me here and for eternity. And thank you for walking with me always. Amen.

Well, my walking friend, you did it! Another 10 minutes of walking and another opportunity to build the spiritual discipline of prayer and quiet time with Jesus, the one who provides everything for our enjoyment. I’m grateful for you and I’m grateful you took the time to walk with me today.

For more Walk with Jesus resources, including the Walk with Jesus 21 day scripture, devotional, and guided prayer journal book for walkers, go to WalkWithJesusDevotional.com. You will find the URL for the show notes for this podcast in the episode description.

I hope we can walk together again tomorrow, friend, as we continue meditating on Biblical hope. Until then, God bless you as you walk with Jesus.