“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6:17-19 ESV.

I haven’t written for a while, especially for #FiveMinuteFriday. I look at the word prompt every Thursday night hoping it will spark a memory or a thought but lately I guess you could say I have had writer’s block. Big time.

This morning, in my bleary-eyed state, I saw the word Enjoy and knew I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to at least thank God for the things that He gives us to enjoy. There is so much evil, so much upheaval and unrest in the world that we tend to be focused only on the bad. We forget the blessings around us and even more so we forget to BE that blessing. We have the opportunity to be the Salt and Light in the world; Jesus wants us to remember our purpose here on this earth but to enjoy this life along the way!

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10.

Abundant life!

So, just what is truly life to the Christian? How do we fulfill our purpose and enjoy life? The scripture in 1 Timothy breaks that down beautifully for us when Paul actually addresses those that are wealthy in the Church. He first instructs them on what NOT to do, or be. Don’t be haughty, (arrogant, proud, vain conceited, snobbish, superior, you get the idea…) and not to set their hopes on their money or possessions. Why? Because they will pass away!

The wealth could be gone tomorrow due to the economy, job loss, disaster, or the stock market. And even more importantly, it is temporary; we will not carry it with us when we leave this world.

But, if instead they USE that blessing, that benefit of plenty, and are generous, ready to share, do good and be rich in good works, then they will be laying a foundation for the future…they will be taking hold of what is truly life.

Most of us are wealthy compared to two thirds of this world. We have more than we need, we are blessed beyond measure and if we know Jesus Christ, if we are in relationship with Him, we cannot keep that blessing to ourselves. It was given to us to enjoy and live an abundant life and it was given for us to give away.

Since the word prompt is ENJOY, I couldn’t resist bringing some sunshine to your day. Norah Jayne’s other beloved grandmother, Nanny Tonya, celebrated her birthday yesterday and Norah made sure she enjoyed every minute of it. Check it out and then go share what is truly life with someone else today.