“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
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It is not uncommon for a person to place hope with what ultimately becomes that person’s identity (what they are known for). Perhaps this is most evident when it comes to money and wealth.
For decades, professional athletes have battled to not associate their value as a person with the size of their contracts. By way of reference, a recent article lists the following amounts as the average/minimum salaries in the four major sports — NFL: $2.8 million/$750,000; NBA: $9.7 million/$1.15 million; MLB: $4.5 million/$740,000; NHL: $3.5 million/$775,000. With the emergence of NIL (name, image, likeness) payments at the collegiate level, athletes need to be on guard to not set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches.
We all face temptations from money, so how do we protect ourselves from falsely hoping in wealth? Paul’s charge to rich people in 1 Timothy 6 gives us some insight. First, humbly enjoy (v. 17) God’s material and monetary blessings in your life. Secondly, employ (v. 18) your wealth; make it work for you through sharing and investing in others. Finally, let your wealth be your envoy (v. 19), something sent ahead to Heaven that represents your values.
Invest in what is eternal. Jesus tells us to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). Let’s not place our hopes in the uncertainty of riches, but may we use our wealth to share the hope of Jesus Christ with others.
— Jeff Totten, Detroit Tigers chaplain
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