Bible Verse
Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.
Here, you’ll know & learn:
・Verse Context
・Key Words
・References from Other Verses of the Bible
・Main Message
・How to Apply This Verse in Your Life
・How to Further Study the Verse
Today, we're going to be looking at a story that hits close to home for anyone who's ever struggled with wanting more in life. Solomon started with such promise—asking God for wisdom instead of riches when given the choice. God was so pleased with this request that He gave Solomon wisdom AND wealth beyond measure.
But something went wrong along the way. The same man who wrote, "better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil" eventually found himself surrounded by gold, horses, palaces, and wives that pulled his heart away from God.
We might not have Solomon's royal treasury, but we all face the same quiet tug of possessions on our hearts. Paul knew this danger when he wrote to Timothy about commanding the rich "not to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain." It's surprising that he doesn't tell people to avoid wealth altogether—instead, he encourages them to "do good, be rich in good deeds, and be generous and willing to share."
Could the answer be not in having or not having, but in how we hold what we have? As we pray together, let's ask for hearts that can enjoy God's blessings without being owned by them.
Read more about Solomon in 1 Kings 1.
Let's Pray
Gracious Father,
I come to You today aware of how easily my heart can be pulled in different directions. Thank You for the story of Solomon that reminds me even the wisest among us can lose their way when wealth becomes more important than wisdom.
Lord, I confess I sometimes feel the weight of wanting more—more comfort, more security, more status through what I own. These desires creep in so quietly I hardly notice until they've taken up residence in my heart. Help me notice when my possessions start possessing me.
Your Word in Timothy reminds me not to put my hope in uncertain riches but in You, the God who richly provides everything for my enjoyment. What freedom there is in that balance—I can enjoy Your gifts without making them my god.
Show me how to hold my resources with open hands. When I grip too tightly, gently loosen my fingers. When I'm tempted to find my worth in what I own, remind me of my true value as Your child.
Give me Solomon's early wisdom without his later distraction. Help me use whatever wealth You've entrusted to me to be "rich in good deeds" and "generous and willing to share."
Thank You that when I invest in Your kingdom rather than just my comfort, I build a foundation for the future that can never be shaken or stolen. Help me take hold of life that is truly life—found not in what I have but in who I am in You.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Journaling Prompts
What possession or comfort in your life would be hardest to give up? What might this reveal about where your heart finds security?
Solomon wrote both "meaningless, everything is meaningless" and "enjoy what God has given you." How do you make sense of these seemingly opposite pieces of wisdom?
In what ways might your current use of money and resources be building a "firm foundation for the coming age," as mentioned in 1 Timothy 6:19?
Solomon's life stands as both a beacon and a warning—showing us that wisdom begins with knowing what truly matters, yet even the wisest hearts can lose their way when distracted by temporary treasures. The weight of wealth isn't in the having but in how heavily it sits on our hearts and minds. May we learn to walk that beautiful balance of gratitude for God's provision without allowing our possessions to possess us. Let's hold everything with open hands, ready to enjoy and to share.
Until next time,
May the Lord bless you and keep you;
May He make His face shine upon you;
And be gracious to you and give you peace
God Bless!
PrayerForMe.org
If you or a loved one needs prayer, click below to share and receive a personalized devotion and prayer.
Sign Up To Our Newsletter
Loved today's devotional? Don't miss out on future inspiration! Join our growing community of believers by signing up for our newsletter. We'll deliver these uplifting messages straight to your inbox, helping you stay connected and grow in your faith.
P.S. It's free, and we promise to respect your inbox. You can unsubscribe anytime, but we hope you'll stick around for the blessings!