The Stock Market sure had an awful week. On Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday of this week, the Dow Jones suffered the three largest point drops ever (although not the largest percentage losses). Lots of people (including, I imagine, many of you who are reading this) experienced financial misery this week.
In this difficulty, God has a powerful lesson to teach us from 1 Tim 6:17. Paul writes,
"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy."
What strikes me about this passage is how Paul describes “riches.” They are “uncertain.” Isn’t that the truth!? Riches provide no source of lasting security. They come and go. One second you might have them; the next second you don’t. They will always disappoint because they are always subject to change.
Provided their uncertainty, we should never set our hope on riches. Ever. If we do, they will cause us anxiety, fear, and dread. They cannot provide us with what we need. Only God can. He is our true provider and sustainer. God provides us what the FDIC can never provide: lasting security, hope, and joy.
Trust in God, not in your 401k.
Pastor Chance