Introductory Thoughts
Job stated that he came to this world naked with nothing, and he knew that he would leave this world in the same fashion (Job 1:21). Job would have understood what Paul meant when he said, “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” Solomon spoke of the vanity of labouring one’s whole life just to leave the fruits of his labour to a fool (Ecclesiastes 2:17-21). This was not written to suggest that man should foolishly spend the wealth before leaving this world. It simply serves as a reminder that men should not foolishly amass their wealth for a day that may never come. One must do his part before death because he can carry nothing with him into death.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Saved and lost alike take nothing into eternity (Psalm 49:10, 16-17). Read Luke 16:19-26. Did the rich man take his riches? Did they help him? Why not use wisely what God gives us now as did those in Philippi (Philippians 4:15-17), or Dorcas (Acts 9:39)?
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(For everyone): What are some things you can do right now that you will not be able to do when you leave this world? How will your control over your finances change at death?
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Are you foolishly spending your money because you know that you cannot take it with you? How would the Lord have you to change your approach?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God for wisdom on how and when to spend your wealth.
- Ask the Lord to remind you that you can take nothing with you.
Song
Have Thine Own Way, Lord!
