Death and Taxes?

1 Timothy 6:17

You’ve probably heard the old adage, “There are only two certainties in life – death and taxes.” It was adapted from a letter written by Benjamin Franklin in 1789. It has survived for over 200 years because others have found truth in it. I’m not sure that Paul (the traditional attributed author of 1 Timothy) would agree with old Ben Franklin. For the author of 1 Timothy, many things in life are uncertain, but the only certain thing in life is God and God’s provision. The author reminds his audience (and us) that true security in life exists only in trust and hope in God.

As we contemplate our giving, financial and otherwise, it is helpful to ask ourselves, “What makes it so hard to give?” Paul in this verse warns that our reluctance to give and give generously may be rooted in where we put our trust and what we make the foundation of our lives. Wealth, comfort, and possessions can so easily become the very foundation of our lives. They become the things we depend on for peace, confidence, security, and even our salvation. Yet Paul calls them “uncertain.” Money can vanish; success can fade; circumstances can shift overnight. God will never vanish from us.

Instead, we are invited to place our trust and hope in God, the One who never changes and who “richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” Notice that Paul doesn’t condemn having resources; rather, he warns against trusting in them. I can recall many times in my life when I was worried about money. I know many people who are worried about money now.

So many people have to make impossible decisions about how to use the money they do have, because there never seems to be enough to make it to the end of the month. People have to make decisions on whether to buy food or buy medication. People have to say no to things that their kids need. I can’t imagine the fear for families who depend upon SNAP benefits right now. It’s easy for those of us who have enough to say, “Oh they need to just trust in God.” However, I wonder how many of us who say that live into that trust now or if we were to find ourselves in that same situation.

Making God the foundation of our security, peace, and confidence challenges us to transform our relationships with money and possessions. When we trust in God’s provisions, it deepens our relationship with Him and frees us to be as generous as God is. We can enjoy what God provides, share it freely, and rest in God’s faithful provision, which is the only “wealth” that truly endures. While death and taxes may seem certain in our lives, the only true certainty is God’s love and provisions. With that certainty, it may make it easier to share the wealth that we’ve been given.

Prayer
Faithful God, when all else fades and vanishes, your provisions and love remain. When everything else seems uncertain, your abiding presence remains certain and true. Help us to trust in your unfailing devotion and commitment to us. Break down our trust in money, wealth, and possessions and help us build a foundation for our lives based on you. Amen.

Rev. Dana Ezell