True Wealth

“I always thank my God for you because of God’s grace given to you in Christ Jesus, that by Him you were made rich in everything – in all speaking and all knowledge – as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you.” (1 Corinthians 1:4-5 CSB)

Wealth is relative. It is based on a perspective, but whose perspective. An ant that has stored up food underground for the winter might consider itself wealthy. Some people consider big corporation CEO’s wealthy. In the eyes of some, America is a wealthy nation, while other countries are not seen in that light. Who determines what wealth is, and what criteria establishes that? If we go by the world’s standards, then God is the One who is wealthy, because in reality it all belongs to Him. His word is the final one on the subject.

Paul wrote to the church at Corinth and said to them (and now to us) that they were rich. His criteria was not the world’s, however. That is because the world’s standard for wealth is at best temporary. The criteria Paul used was spiritual in nature. They were rich in “all speaking and all knowledge.” They were wealthy in terms of spiritual gifts, not because they earned it, but because they were “made rich.” God’s grace resulted in their spiritual wealth.

Money is no requirement for true wealth. True riches are those that are lasting, that endure, and that kind of wealth is not really attainable. It can only be given, and God is the One who gives it.

Recall what Jesus taught. “Don’t collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven, whether neither moth nor rust destroy and where thieves don’t break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21) And also remember, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” (Matthew 6:33)

If you want to have a life that represents true wealth, then seek those riches that endure for all eternity.

Father, Help us to understand Your perspective on what constitutes real wealth, and help us to seek after those riches and not be deceived by the world’s standards. Amen.