Riches, nature of

God has created an abundance of good things. Those who have material wealth should understand its true nature and acknowledge God.

God and riches

All riches belong to God the Creator

Psalm 24:1–2 See also Job 41:11; Psalm 50:12; Haggai 2:8

A Psalm of David. The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters.

God gives of his riches

1 Samuel 2:7 See also Ecclesiastes 5:19; 1 Chronicles 29:12; 2 Chronicles 1:12

The LORD sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and He exalts.

God gives the ability to produce wealth

Deuteronomy 8:17–18 See also Genesis 26:12–13; Deuteronomy 26:9–10

You might say in your heart, “The power and strength of my hands have made this wealth for me.” But remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you the power to gain wealth, in order to confirm His covenant that He swore to your fathers even to this day.

Riches may be a sign of God's blessing

Proverbs 10:22 See also 2 Chronicles 25:9; Job 1:9–10; Psalm 112:1–3, Psalm 128:1–2; Proverbs 8:17–18

The blessing of the LORD enriches, and He adds no sorrow to it.

Riches should be thankfully received

1 Timothy 4:4–5 See also Matthew 14:19; Romans 1:21; Colossians 3:17

For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be rejected, because it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

The character of earthly riches

Riches provide great opportunity for doing good

Exodus 35:29; 1 Chronicles 29:6–7; Luke 12:33, Luke 16:9, Luke 19:8; Acts 4:34–35

Riches do not satisfy

Ecclesiastes 5:10 See also Proverbs 13:11, Proverbs 27:20, Proverbs 27:24; Ecclesiastes 4:8, Ecclesiastes 6:7; Luke 12:18

He who loves money is never satisfied by money, and he who loves wealth is never satisfied by income. This too is futile.

Riches are insecure and uncertain

1 Timothy 6:17 See also Job 1:13–19; Proverbs 23:5, Proverbs 27:24; Jeremiah 48:36; Matthew 6:19; 1 Peter 1:18; Revelation 18:14–20

Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides all things for us to enjoy.

Riches are for this life only

1 John 2:17 See also Luke 12:13–21; 1 Timothy 6:6–8

The world is passing away, along with its desires; but whoever does the will of God remains forever.