Pursuing wealth presents many dangers. Solomon warns us, saying, “He who trusts in his riches will fall…” (Prov. 11:28) and “He who makes haste to be rich will not go unpunished” (28:20).
Pursuing spiritual riches is a different matter altogether. Timothy was told: “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed” (1 Timothy 6:17–19).
Two words that seem to flow together in the Bible are the words “good” and “works.” Jesus says, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Again, in Ephesians 2:10, we read: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”
God calls us to good works. Every new day presents another opportunity to be involved in good works. A life marked by good works provides evidence that we understand and appreciate the death of Jesus. Paul explains that Jesus “gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14).
“A certain rich man” is described as “habitually dressed in purple and fine linen, gaily living in splendor every day” (Lk. 16:19). At his gate was a poor beggar named Lazarus. He was so utterly helpless that he could not even stop the dogs from licking his sores. In spite of daily opportunities, the rich man made no effort to help Lazarus. But, after both had died, the rich man “lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away, and Lazarus in his bosom” (Luke 16:23). Opportunities neglected today may become matters of everlasting regret. It is one thing to die rich; it is quite another thing to die rich in good works.
— Glen Elliott —