Dear Friend,

 When the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy about the way to be a good minister, he talked about money.  He said (1Timothy 6:9,10) “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptations, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.  For the love of money is the root of all evils.”  From this there has arisen the myth that money is evil and the rich are all terrible people.

 We hope you know that this is nonsense.  It was not what Paul meant.  He was concerned with those who worship (love) money as a god or end in itself.  He clarified this just six verses later (I Timothy 17-19).  ”As for the rich in this world, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on uncertain riches but on God who richly furnishes us with everything to enjoy.  They are to do good, to be rich in good deeds, liberal and generous, thus laying up for themselves a good foundation for the future, so they may take hold of the life which is life indeed."

 Notice Paul says:  “God richly furnishes us with everything to enjoy.”  This is the Truth and man has freely chosen to use money as means of exchange for things that God furnishes us.  Some people are ignorant and think they create the wealth; thus, try to stop the circulation of abundance.  Others, also in ignorance, believe that these people create wealth.  Both groups suffer the results of stagnated life.

 None of us need continue in such ignorance.  We can learn the Truth of God and prosperity for each of us.  We can live the totally abundant life Jesus came to show us. We can have money, success—the things of this earth—and remain happy, creative, productive stewards and ministers of God.  We will spend our time together in January exploring the ways and means of this rich life, while overcoming the temptations, snares and hurtful desires that come with putting money before God.  Please come and share this good news with us.

We wish you a prosperous New Year.

Frank and Margaret