Using One’s Wealth December 11, 2015

Read Matthew 27:57-60

1 Timothy 6:17      Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

Matthew 12:32     Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.

Luke 3:11     John answered, "Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same."

Luke 12:20     "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'

Acts 14:17     Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy."

Romans 11:20     Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but tremble.

Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy man who had become a disciple of Jesus. He did not allow his money to become his idol, his reason for living, or a replacement for Jesus. He used his wealth for the purpose of serving Christ, even at a time of deep grief for Jesus’ followers after the Crucifixion. 

Joseph took the body of Christ, wrapped it in clean linen, and placed it in a new tomb that Joseph had made for himself. Having one’s own tomb was reserved for the wealthy, not for a common man killed on a cross.

How much money we have doesn’t matter. What matters is how we use what we have. What a good example Joseph is for us today, both for those who have a great deal of money and for those whose pockets are empty! Loving Jesus gives us a purpose and an inheritance far greater than any bank account. May our love for Christ prompt us to live generously for his sake.