If Riches Increase

Psalm 62:10 Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart upon them.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Gaining wealth (or riches) has allowed some people to increase their levels of comfort far beyond those who are financially disadvantaged. In one parable, the Lord spoke of a rich man whose ground brought forth plentifully (Luke 12:16). The rich man unfortunately came to trust in his abundance and decided to take his ease (Luke 12:19), but that night he died (Luke 12:20). Riches are not for ever (Proverbs 27:24) even if it is not death that robs a man of his riches. The Bible says for the living, riches “certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven” (Proverbs 23:5). Furthermore, we are told that those who trust in riches will fall (Proverbs 11:28). Perhaps this is why Paul told Timothy to instruct the rich to trust in the living God rather than their uncertain riches (1 Timothy 6:17).

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):Job knew better than to trust in riches (Job 31:24-25, 28). Unlike eternity, riches are not forever. Consider how the Bible describes the end of those who trust in riches (Psalm 49:6-7; Psalm 52:5, 7; Psalm 73:12, 16-17; Proverbs 11:4).

(For everyone):What are some ways in which riches can “certainly make themselves wings”? Why is it dangerous for you to come to trust in your riches?

(For everyone):How certain is your job? How certain is the stock market? How certain is the financial stability in any country? How quickly could you lose all that you have?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask God to show you the uncertainty of riches.

Ask the Lord to guard you from misplaced faith.

SONG

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

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