Definition and Overview:
True wealth, from a biblical perspective, transcends material possessions and financial prosperity. It encompasses spiritual richness, wisdom, and a life aligned with God's will. The Bible frequently contrasts earthly wealth with spiritual wealth, emphasizing the eternal value of the latter.

Biblical References:

1. Spiritual Riches Over Material Wealth:
· In Matthew 6:19-21 , Jesus instructs, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This passage highlights the impermanence of earthly wealth and the enduring nature of spiritual treasures.

2. Contentment and Godliness:
· 1 Timothy 6:6-10 states, "Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." This passage underscores the importance of contentment and warns against the dangers of pursuing wealth for its own sake.

3. The Parable of the Rich Fool:
· In Luke 12:16-21 , Jesus tells the parable of a rich man who stored up wealth for himself but was not "rich toward God." The man’s life was demanded of him that very night, illustrating the futility of hoarding earthly wealth without regard for spiritual matters.

4. Riches in Christ:
· Ephesians 1:18 speaks of "the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints." This refers to the spiritual blessings and eternal inheritance believers have in Christ, which far surpass any earthly wealth.

5. Generosity and Sharing:
· Proverbs 11:24-25 teaches, "One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." This wisdom literature emphasizes the paradox that true wealth is found in generosity and selflessness.

Theological Insights:

· Stewardship: The Bible teaches that all resources, including wealth, are entrusted to individuals by God. Believers are called to be good stewards, using their resources to further God's kingdom and help others (1 Peter 4:10).

· Eternal Perspective: True wealth is understood in light of eternity. Earthly possessions are temporary, but spiritual investments have everlasting significance (2 Corinthians 4:18).

· Heart Attitude: The condition of the heart is central to understanding true wealth. A heart aligned with God values spiritual riches over material gain and seeks to honor God in all things (Matthew 6:33).

Practical Applications:

· Prioritizing Spiritual Growth: Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom, understanding, and a deeper relationship with God, which are considered true riches (Proverbs 3:13-15).

· Generosity and Service: Practicing generosity and serving others are ways to reflect true wealth, as they align with God's character and purposes (Acts 20:35).

· Trust in God's Provision: Trusting in God's provision and being content with what He provides is a mark of true wealth, as it reflects faith and reliance on Him rather than on material resources (Philippians 4:19).

Understanding true wealth involves recognizing the supremacy of spiritual riches over material possessions and living a life that reflects God's values and priorities.