Read Psalm 49:14-20
"Do not be afraid when one becomes rich, when the glory of his house is increased; for when he dies he shall carry nothing away" (vv. 16,17). Wealth is temporary. We can't take it with us, so we must use it for the glory of God while we have it. God gives us riches because of His goodness. First Timothy 6:17 says He gives to us "richly all things to enjoy." But we are stewards of wealth, not owners. That comes as a shock to some people. A person may think he owns his house and all of the possessions he has purchased. Yet when he dies, he is separated from them forever.
The psalmist gives two warnings regarding material possessions. First, beware of having a false security. People buy houses and put their names on them, but one day those houses will be torn down. Or, if the house isn't torn down, someone will come by and say, "That name on that house. Who was that fellow?" And the reply will be, "I don't know. Never heard of him." People try to perpetuate their fame through their wealth, but eventually they fail.
Second, beware of wasted opportunity. We can invest what God has entrusted to us in His work. We can help other people. The wealth that God gives to us--if we are faithful stewards--can be transformed into ministry that brings everlasting glory to Him. Don't waste your opportunity to serve Him this way.
To many, wealth often is their security. But it is a false security because riches are temporary. God alone gives wealth, and He expects it to be shared and used for His glory. Are you a faithful steward of what God has given you?
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