Note 1 at 1 Tim. 6:17: Some people have mistakenly thought that Paul's previous statements in this chapter show that he was totally against wealth and riches (vv. 5-10). That's not so. His instructions here prove it. He didn't tell Timothy to rebuke the rich people or have them give all their money away. He just warned them to keep their trust in the Lord and not in their riches.

Note 2 at 1 Tim. 6:17: In this verse, Paul tells the rich how NOT to act. In the next verse, Paul tells the rich how to act (see note 4 at v. 18).

First, Paul tells the rich not to be highminded. This is talking about attitude. Looking down on those who have less wealth is wrong. Riches are not to make you feel that you're better than others. Anyone who sees God as the source of his wealth has no reason to be arrogant.

Second, they are not to trust in riches. Riches can come or go overnight. Our trust must always be in the One who prospers, not in the prosperity itself. A person with faith in God can lose everything, yet rise again and prosper because he still has God and his faith in Him.

Both the New Testament and Old Testament indicate that nothing is wrong with wealth if used correctly. Many of the Old Testament saints were rich (Gen. 13:2; 1 Ki. 10:21; 1 Ch. 29:3-5; Job 1:3).

Note 3 at 1 Tim. 6:17: God gives us wealth to enjoy (see ref. g at this v.). That's what Paul is saying. He's not only speaking of money, but his statement certainly includes money. The Message translates this verse as, ". . .go after God, who piles on all the riches we could ever manage. . . ." God delights in the prosperity of His servants (Ps. 35:27).