After today’s reading, go to pages 70-71 of your Awaken Guidebook and take a few minutes to complete the “Look Back” section and the “Pray About It” section.
Read 1 Timothy 6:15-19 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- What words and phrases are used to describe God in these verses?
- What should “those who are rich” put their trust in, and how should they use their money?
- What will they experience by doing this?
Reflect
Today’s Bible passage opens with a vivid descriptor of God’s power and eternal nature. Paul contrasts this with the temporary nature of our lives here on earth. The church that Timothy led was in a very wealthy city. Paul not only wanted to point to the nature and character of God; he warned believers against finding their significance in earthly wealth, and he set up guardrails to help them avoid the trap of greed.
Paul’s list of guardrails is tangible and applicable for us today. We’re urged to not let money make us proud but instead, to put our trust in God. We’re told to use our money to do good, to be rich in good works (honoring God with what He’s given us), to be generous to those in need, and to always be ready to share.
If you’re struggling with one or more of these things, that’s okay. The whole point of this Awaken season is to engage with God. Ask Him to fill you with a desire for His Kingdom over your own. Let Him ground your significance in what He says about you rather than what the world says or how much stuff you have. This life is about fixing your eyes on Jesus and anticipating His arrival. It’s about building His heavenly Kingdom here on earth.
Respond
- How does the description of God’s power and eternal nature hit you? What do you find reassuring? Does it change anything in how you view or approach your life?
- Of the guardrails mentioned (trust God, use money to do good, be rich in good works, be generous to those in need, and be ready to share), is there one you struggle with in particular? What do you sense God asking you to do or change in order to put these guardrails in place?
- What are some practical ways you can fix your eyes on Jesus today? What are some practical ways you can build His heavenly Kingdom here on earth?
As you process these questions, use page 71 of your Awaken Guidebook to jot down any key reflections or next steps. Be sure to bring your guidebook to your group! Page 72 is a great place to write down things that you want to process together.