TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 1 Timothy 6:6 NLT
Read: 1 Timothy 6:6
Listen: 1 Timothy 6
TODAY’S MESSAGE
First-century Ephesus was a wealthy, upwardly mobile, cosmopolitan hotspot. As you walked through the agora, merchants sold things you needed to survive like food and clothing, but also jewelry and other regalia of the wealthy. Nestled on the hill were terraced houses of the wealthy with hot and cold water, HVAC systems and ornate decorations. It was a city ripe for aspiring for wealth.
Our culture isn’t radically different. The aisles of Costco contain basics like food and clothing, but also many items for a wealthy lifestyle hoping to inspire us to spend a bit more. Influencers on social media sip champagne on private jets, telling us this is what the good life looks like. It can be easy to aspire for their lifestyle.
But that’s not what Paul tells Timothy is real wealth. Paul says it’s a basic math equation: Godliness + Contentment = Real Wealth. Godliness is a God-powered life versus a self-powered life. It understands that value comes from God, not from what we think money will bring. It’s God at the center. If we are Jesus-followers, our a relationship with the Creator has infinite value.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Memorize the verses from the series bookmark/lock screen, Philippians 4:11b-13, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” If you haven’t already, download the lock screen to remind yourself that true contentment is found through the power of God.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is Mark 4.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
