Sunday, October 11, 2026

1 Timothy 6:17
Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.

At first glance, this verse might sound like it's speaking only to people who have a lot of money. But the writer here, Paul, isn't drawing a line between the rich and the poor. He's addressing something that can sneak into any of our hearts: where we place our trust.

Whether we have a little or a lot, money can become the thing we look to for security, happiness, freedom, and control. But God offers us something so much greater. He invites us to trust him. Not just as the One who provides what we need, but as the One who richly gives us good things to enjoy.

Freedom in our finances comes when we stop asking our money to do a job it was never meant to do.

Money can buy things, but it can't buy peace. It can provide convenience, but it can't provide security for tomorrow. It can give us options, but it can't give us the deep contentment that comes from knowing our lives are in God's hands.

Friends, that is where God wants us to focus our hearts. Not on how much we have or don't have, but on who we trust with what we've been given. 

Taking time to step back and examine where your finances are isn't meant to pile on shame, guilt, or "I shoulda done better" statements. It’s an invitation to notice where our trust has landed, and then turn our hearts back toward God. 

So, take an honest look at your life and look for God’s provision. Find joy in what he has given you, and stop constantly chasing the next thing you think will finally make you feel secure. Hold your money with open hands, and stop gripping it because you're afraid there won't be enough. 

And if doing any of these exercises uncovers something uncomfortable, that's okay. 

Ask God to show you the next step to take in your finances. Because the truth is, rich or poor, we all have a next step to take. 

Discussion Questions:

Ice Breaker: If you were given unlimited funds to spend on one thing, what would it be?

How does our culture shape the way we think about money, success, and contentment?

Read Luke 12:13-21: How does this story challenge the idea that having more automatically brings security or peace?

When you look at how you spend your time, money, and energy, what do they reveal about what matters most to you?

Reflect and Respond: What is one practical step you can take this week to better align your spending with your values and priorities?

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your constant provision. Help me to find joy in what I have and to trust you with my finances. Teach me to let go of fear and hold my money with open hands. Please reveal any areas that need change, and give me wisdom and courage for whatever the next step is. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

1 Timothy 6:6-7
Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 

Written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content at CedarCreek Church.