Paul talks to us today in 1 Timothy 6: 1-10 about the dangers of desiring and chasing after wealth. But before that, in verses 1-2, he talks about slavery. We take a few minutes to unpack what that means in Roman culture compared to American history. Then, we look closer at why the love of money is the root of all evil and how, if we are not careful, it can cause us to lose our souls.

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Good morning. It’s a pleasure to be back with you after a brief absence. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who reached out to me following my mother’s passing last week. She left us on Ash Wednesday, coinciding with Valentine’s Day. The outpouring of messages, emails, and phone calls has been deeply appreciated during this challenging time for my family. Though her departure was expected, the reality of her absence weighs heavily on us. Losing a loved one is never easy, but we find solace in the belief that she is now at peace. She lived a remarkable and godly life, and I am immensely grateful for the blessings she brought into my life.

As we navigate the days ahead, I ask for your continued prayers and support for myself, my father, and our family. Finding a new normal will undoubtedly be a journey, but we take comfort in the knowledge that God remains steadfast in all circumstances. Reflecting on the past year, I am thankful for the additional time we had with my mother while she was under hospice care. We were fortunate to share 94 years with her, and for that, we are truly grateful.

Turning our attention to today’s reading from 1 Timothy, we delve into chapter 6, verses 1 through 10. The passage touches on the delicate topic of slavery, urging those under the yoke of servitude to regard their masters with honor. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining respect and dignity, even in challenging circumstances. However, it’s essential to contextualize these teachings within the broader framework of biblical principles, recognizing that scripture ultimately advocates for freedom and justice.

In particular, the passage warns against the dangers of greed and the pursuit of wealth. It cautions against the belief that material gain is synonymous with godliness, reminding us that true contentment comes from aligning our desires with spiritual values. The love of money, it asserts, is the root of all kinds of evil, leading individuals astray from their faith and causing harm to themselves and others.

As we reflect on these teachings, let us remember the importance of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material possessions. Jesus reminds us in the Sermon on the Mount to seek first the kingdom of God, trusting that our needs will be provided for. In a world consumed by the pursuit of wealth and power, we must guard our hearts against the allure of earthly riches, focusing instead on cultivating a life rooted in faith and compassion.

Thank you for accompanying me on this journey of reflection and discovery. Tomorrow, we will continue our exploration of 1 Timothy as we near its conclusion. Until then, may you find peace and fulfillment in the presence of God. Have a wonderful day, and I look forward to our next encounter.