⁶ But godliness with contentment is great gain.^{(A) 7} For we brought nothing into the world, and^[a] we can take nothing out.^{(B) 8} If we have food and clothing,^[b] we will be content with these. ⁹ But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. ¹⁰ For the love of money is a root^[c] of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith^(C) and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Instructions to the Rich

¹⁷ Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be arrogant^(A) or to set their hope on the uncertainty of wealth, but on God,^[a] who richly provides us with all things^(B) to enjoy. ¹⁸ Instruct them to do what is good, to be rich in good works,^(C) to be generous and willing to share,^{(D) 19} storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the coming age,^(E) so that they may take hold of what is truly life.