RICH IN VIRTUE 

Our true wealth is our stock of virtue, and our true power is the uses to which we put it.

Virtue is when we choose actions that succeed in showing high moral standards. Doing what is said to be right above all.  

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Philippians 4:8 

Love, purity, gentleness, meekness, patience, compassion, generosity, selflessness, and self-renunciation - all these are wealth and the mastery is the uses to which we put it. 

The heart that truly desires to do good does not wait for money before doing it. If your real desire is to do good, there is no need to wait for money before you do it; you can do it now, this very moment, and just where you are. 

Do good with what you have now.  The more money you get the more good you will do. 

Money does not constitute true wealth, position, or power, and we should not rely upon it alone. 

In the midst of riches, we should be willing to look upon ourselves as stewards and not as owners. Wealth is to do good with it and to bless others. 

Many years ago, I was in charge of operating our family business. It was in my hometown of Arima in Trinidad in the Caribbean. We called the enterprise 'Farm and Garden Supplies'. 

Photo courtesy Glen Foncette (dec.)

I would often help out struggling farmers and agriculturalists. There was one young man in particular who did not have any money to buy seeds for his gardening business. I took it upon myself to give him all the seeds he wanted with the hope he would pay me when he was able to sell his harvest. 

It was a joy to witness the gratitude in him when he finally returned to pay me. Still today, I can see the heartfelt look on his face. 

He felt so happy and grateful that someone was willing to help him in his dire need. When we are blessed with abundance and can afford to aid others, we should do so. It means the world to them.

When we know what it is to have, we are always looking to give. It FILLS us up - with an overflowing grace of knowing we are a blessing to others.