Growing Riches

Sadly, some practically sell their souls to the devil to get rich. Hundreds of books have been written about get rich schemes. “But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided? So is he who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:20,21).

It is not good for us to lay treasure up for ourselves and not be rich toward God. How do we become rich toward God? How can we have a bank account in Heaven (Matthew 6:20)? What can we do?

We grow rich towards God by the works we do! We hear the good news about Jesus Christ and obey His gospel (Romans 1:16,17). 1 Timothy 6:18,19 teaches, “Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life”. As Christians, we have healthy spiritual bank accounts by doing good to all, especially to those of the household of God (Galatians 6:10). We speak as we should and help others because we love God and we love our fellow man.

Smyrna was one of two congregations Jesus did not find fault with in the book of Revelation (Philadelphia was the other). Note what Jesus says about Smyrna, “I know your works, tribulation, and poverty (but you are rich); and I know the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan”. Jesus declares Smyrna to be materially poor (little money or possessions), but spiritually rich. Why? This congregation has works of faith, this congregation was persecuted but did not quit, and this congregation chose to be rich towards God rather than rich towards themselves.

May we all take heed and be as the Smyrna congregation.

Stay true to the Word, 

Brother Travis