THEOSISPhilaret (Gumilevski)
It may be due to a lack of understanding or a sense of arrogance that those who are affluent fail to recognize their connection to the less fortunate. Yet even a non-believer's conscience acknowledges that we are all sustained by the grace of our Heavenly Father, who continually bestows upon us more blessings in a moment than we can possibly extend to others throughout our entire lives. Consequently, even a basic awareness of God's blessings compels the wealthy to attend to the needs of the poor. Who has bestowed the riches upon the affluent? Was it solely the efforts of the rich individual? If he truly worked as hard as his wealth suggests, then who provided him with the strength to labor? No!
Read more (119 words)
It is from Him alone that “riches and glory..., in His hand is strength and favor to magnify and strengthen all things.” Therefore, the wealth of the rich is not their own possession, but rather a divine gift. It is essential for the affluent to express humble and heartfelt gratitude to their generous Heavenly Father and to manifest this gratitude through acts of kindness toward the needy. This is the offering expected of him by the Lord! “Charity and fellowship forget not: by such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrews 13:16). If the wealth of the affluent is indeed a divine gift, then surely it is given with a purpose that reflects the wisdom and holiness of the Giver.