Alexander the Great was a Macedonian king who conquered Persia, Greece and Egypt. He was considered the “conqueror of the world.” It was the custom in his day that when a person died their hands would be wrapped so no one could see them. However, prior to his death he asked that his hands remain unwrapped.

When they asked why, he replied, “I want everyone to see that they were empty.”

In his letter to Timothy, Paul said, “After all, we didn’t bring anything with us when we came into this world, and we certainly can’t take anything with us when we die.” This is a popular verse, used by many, but accepted and followed as a guide for living by only a few – judging by the way that most of us live!

In three short verses, Paul gives some astounding advice to all of us. He begins by saying that true religion can be very valuable if it brings one contentment. Might he be saying that if we are not content with what we believe, no amount of money will bring us peace? Then he reminds us that we “can’t take it with us.” And then he concludes this bit of advice by saying, “And by the way, if you have enough food and clothing, be content. And if you are not content with what God’s given you, you will be tempted and trapped by foolish desires that bring ruin and destruction.” We must always consider what is in our hands.

Prayer: It’s easy, Lord, to want what has no eternal value. Place in our hearts a desire for what matters most. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: 1 Timothy 6:6-10  Now godliness with contentment is great gain.

Once, while walking through one of his factories, Henry Ford stopped to talk with an engineer. “Tell me,” he asked, “what is your ambition in life?”

With no hesitation he answered, “To make money and become rich!”

A few days later he returned to talk to the engineer. He paused for a moment and then handed him a pair of glasses. In place of the lenses were silver dollars. “Put them on,” he said. “Now, what do you see?”

“Nothing but money,” he replied

“Maybe,” said Mr. Ford, “you should rethink your ambitions.”

Many people believe that money can bring happiness. Although there is evidence to prove that this is not true, it is a belief that drives many people to try to acquire more and more. It seems to lead to an endless cycle and life without peace.

Paul gives some us some guidelines to keep us focused. One day, whatever we have will all be gone.

In view of that, we are to be content with what we have. We are also to love people more than money and we are to share what God has given to us with others if they have a need.

God has promised to give us what we need, not want.

Prayer: Thank You, Father, for supplying our every need. May we learn to be content with what You graciously give us each day. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Scripture for Today: 1 Timothy 6:6-10 Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out (Read more…)

Alexander the Great was a Macedonian king who conquered Persia, Greece and Egypt. He was considered the “conqueror of the world.” It was the custom of his day that when a person died their hands would be wrapped so no one could see them. However, prior to his death he asked that his hands remain unwrapped. When they asked why, he replied, “I want everyone to see that they are empty.”

In his letter to Timothy, Paul said, “After all, we didn’t bring anything with us when we came into this world, and we certainly can’t take anything with us when we die.” This is a popular verse, used by many, but accepted and followed as a guide for living by only a few - judging by the way that most of us live!

In three short verses, Paul gives some astounding advice to all of us. He begins by saying that true religion can be very valuable if it brings one contentment. Might he be saying that if we are not content with what we believe, no amount of money will bring us peace? Then he reminds us that we “can’t take it with us.” And then he concludes this bit of advice by saying, “And by the way, if you have enough food and clothing, be content. And if you are not content with what God’s given you, you will be tempted and trapped by foolish desires that bring ruin and destruction.”

Prayer: It’s easy, Lord, to want what has no eternal value. Place in our hearts a desire for what matters most. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:6-10