Enough

The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy about the contrast between those who pursue earthly wealth vs those who are content. His words have been used to justify hatred for those with wealth as well as to excuse laziness and irresponsibility. The popular maxim that money is the root of evil is twisted from this conversation. But what was the real message Paul wanted the young man to understand?

The word “content” or “contentment” literally means “enough.” Paul said that reverence (godliness) with enough was provision for our lives. We have provided nothing for ourselves and are nothing within ourselves alone. Timothy lived and taught in a city famed for its wealth; the focus of its citizens was to maintain and grow that wealth by any means necessary. Idolatry and vice was big business for the Ephesians, and conversion to faith in Christ meant not only a loss of wealth but a loss of livelihood for many. It would have been difficult come to terms with for people whose entire lives were wrapped in opulence.

Paul wanted Timothy to help the Ephesians understand who truly provided for them and why. He told them that those whose lives revolved around getting money, who saw that as their purpose, lived in a prison of dissatisfaction. Because their purpose was getting more for themselves, they could never have or be enough. Life would be miserable, wasted chasing what could never be obtained.

Timothy was to remind the Ephesians that God Himself provided whatever they needed. If they possessed monetary wealth, God had provided it. If the most basic of needs were met, God had provided it. Every person’s job was the same: share what they had, work at things that embodied good (God), and to set their hearts toward attitudes that reflected the heart of God. If they did that, if their faith settled on the power greater than themselves, if their purpose was to serve rather than to gain, then it would matter to them whether they were rich or poor.

God’s purpose for man has never been to pursue personal gain, monetary or otherwise. His purpose for humanity is to love Him, be like Him as our children are like us, share Him with those who don’t know Him. For some, that will involve rubbing shoulders with the rich and powerful of this world. If wealth, respect, or fame are required to accomplish that purpose, God will provide. Others are called to reach the poverty-stricken, pain-drenched, forgotten masses. For them, money and power may mean far less than the ability to empathize. Paul told Timothy that whatever God chose to provide would be enough to fulfill His purpose. Even if all that He chose to provide was food and clothing, the person who received those blessings would be enough, not for themselves, but for God.