Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. (1 Timothy 6:17-19 — New Living Translation)
Here we see the Holy Spirit telling pastors to tell their financially rich members not to be proud and not to put their trust in the money they have. Riches can be easily lost, and are unable to make people secure or happy or to give them eternal life. Only God is worthy of a person's total trust; only God can provide for us now and throughout eternity.
Those who have wealth are also commanded to do good with their money, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share their wealth with those who are in need. We are only caretakers of the good things that God gives us, and are expected to be careful in the way we use them. What I have, I need to use for the glory of God and to help others. Money, health, abilities, time, strength, knowledge — we need to use all these things in a carefully, prayerful, humble way.
When we do what is right, when we obey God… we are preparing ourselves for heaven. Using money to help others, especially when it has a chance to bring them to Jesus, is an investment in heaven, in something permanent, unlike any other investment! The various types of sacrifices we make for Jesus have the ability to rescue the lost, and will make a huge difference in this world. We should be “storing up treasure in the future", not on earth. Just as Jesus sacrificed Himself to save us, we can sacrifice ourselves to save and help others. What a privilege!
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