Deceitfulness of Riches
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high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who
giveth us richly all things to enjoy.” Men are not to hoard up their
riches and take no good of them, depriving themselves of the comforts
of life and virtually becoming slaves in order to retain or increase their
earthly treasure.
The apostle Paul shows the only true use for riches, and bids
Timothy charge the rich to do good, that they be rich in good works,
ready to distribute, willing to communicate; for in so doing they
are laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the
time to come,—referring to the close of time,—that they may lay
hold on eternal life. The teachings of Paul harmonize perfectly with
the words of Christ: “Make to yourselves friends of the mammon
of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into
everlasting habitations.” Godliness with contentment is great gain.
Here is the true secret of happiness, and real prosperity of soul and
body.
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