WEALTH
Who’s the richest person on earth? The answer will vary from year to year. But it’s always based on their financial status. But is that really the best way to judge riches?
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17–19
The wealth that God provides can’t be measured in numbers. He may provide great monetary wealth, as He did for Solomon (Quran 38:35–39) and that’s a great blessing. But much more important is peace of mind, appreciation, security and happiness. You may have a wonderful family or a wealth of friends or you may measure your wealth in a rich sunset or a hillside in fall colors. You may find wealth in a drink of fresh pure water or the sweet taste of a ripe peach. Your wealth may come in the smile of your child or grandchild or the hug of an old friend. If we are appreciative of the blessings God gives us, no matter how small or large, we are indeed wealthy.
Anyone who seeks the materials of this world should know that GOD possesses both the materials of this world and the Hereafter. GOD is Hearer, Seer. Quran 4:134
You may show your wealth by helping others. All faiths encourage charity. If we eagerly give from what we have been given, it brightens our lives, warms our hearts, and gives us a joy and a satisfaction that money cannot buy. The righteous: They donate their favorite food to the poor, the orphan, and the captive. “We feed you for the sake of GOD; we expect no reward from you, nor thanks.” Quran 76:8–9
To do that we have to overcome our natural stinginess.
You are invited to spend in the cause of GOD, but some of you turn stingy. The stingy are stingy towards their own souls. GOD is Rich, while you are poor.
Quran 47:38
The stingy are eager to get rich and are unaware that poverty awaits them.
Proverbs 28:22
Be generous to the poor orphans and those in need. The man to whom our Lord has been liberal ought not to be stingy. We shall one day find in Heaven as much rest and joy as we ourselves have dispensed in this life. Saint Ignatius
Don’t spend your time counting your money. There’s nothing wrong with having wealth in this world; just don’t make it your priority.
“Use the provisions bestowed upon you by GOD to seek the abode of the Hereafter, without neglecting your share in this world. Be charitable, as GOD has been charitable towards you. Do not keep on corrupting the earth. GOD does not love the corruptors.” Quran 28:77
As for those who choose the Hereafter as their priority, and work righteousness, while believing, their efforts will be appreciated. Quran 17:19
God tells us that He found us poor and made us rich (Quran 93:8). We can all be incredibly wealthy if we just appreciate every blessing and thank God for every gift. If you are rich in spirit and faith, then you may be the wealthiest person on earth!
