How to Be Rich Toward God

November 10, 2005

Author: Rev. Kip B. Banks, Sr.

This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God." (Luke 12:121)

Greetings dearly beloved!

This is the second in a series based on the 33 Laws of Stewardship.

How to Be Rich Toward God

In the parable that Jesus tells of the rich fool, the man that he thinks he has made. He had gotten wealthy and was living large. Perhaps he had struck it big in the stock market and so he said to himself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." (Luke 12:19)

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? This is how it will be with anyone who sores up things for himself but is not rich toward God." How can we be rich toward God?
The answer follows:

Richness toward God comes through seeing everything as a gift from His hand. Whatever we receive in money o material goods or opportunities or in the moments of each day is purely and simply a gift from God. It's an expression of His love, and evidence of His grace. Every possession is entrusted to us to steward and enjoy and use for His purposes.

Richness toward God comes through seeking His direction before settling on decisions. This is the essence of seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, desiring above else to do His will (Matt. 6:33). The seeking happens continually as we commune with God and communicate with Him throughout the day. And, whenever we receive "windfall" blessings, the first order of business is to ask, "Lord, what is your purpose in this? What do you want me to do?"

Richness toward God comes through caring more about giving than getting. The rich man of the parable was consumed with greed and he cared nothing about giving. And lest we condemn him, let us remember that every person has the same capacity for the same sin. The challenge is to think inclusively about others instead of exclusively about ourselves, for in doing so we grow rich toward God and satisfied in His pleasure. Generously giving at every opportunity, we fulfill our purpose and honor His name.

Peace and Blessings to You!
Pastor Kip Banks

East Washington Heights Baptist Church