Paul’s first letter to Timothy ended by pointing to one of the “great reversals” Jesus’ message brings. Some people in Timothy’s church had lots of money. Paul didn’t want this often short-lived wealth to blind them to God, “who richly provides” for our well-being. After describing the spiritual dangers that go with a lust for money, Paul told Timothy, “Run for your life from all this” (verse 11, The Message).

• How rich (or poor) are you, by the measure these verses suggest? If your “contentment quotient” is strong, reflect on how it got that way. What changes might disrupt your contentment, and for what reasons? If your quotient is lower, ask God to help you raise it. Ask the most contented person you know what values and choices led toward contentment. Verse 19 said generosity, sharing and a wealth of good deeds allow God’s people to “take hold of what is truly life.” What moments have you had that let you know that generosity and sharing are key aspects of a life truly worth living?