Thomas Lee, a billionaire, aged 78 died by committing suicide on 23 February 2023. His net worth was $2billion. Yet, the man who was rich in wealth died a miserable death by shooting himself. His philanthropic engagement was also commendable. As a Jew, he was familiar with Ten Commandments, nevertheless, he murdered himself.
Life anchor: To keep the ship or boat from wavering and hold it to one position, an anchor is used. It is usually a metal attached to with a cable or chain and lowered to the seabed to hold the ship or boat. It is invisible, but essential. The rich man did not have an anchor for his soul. (Hebrews 6:19-20) An anchor was the symbol of hope in the ancient world.
Refuge: The billionaire did not have a strong tower or city of refuge. Moses commanded to build Cities of Refuge that were open for all to run and be safe until the person stood a fair and just trial. (Numbers 35) There is a difference between the Cities of Refuge and Lord Jesus Christ. Only innocent could come to the City of Refuge, but all sinners are welcome to be cleansed by the Blood of Lord Jesus Christ and become righteous. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower and the righteous run into it and they are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10)
Not rich toward God: The rich fool who expanded his warehouses to store the bumper harvest, did not expect a sudden end. Lord said that a rich man who was like Thomas Lee laid treasure for himself and was not rich towards God. (Luke 12:21)
Not rich in faith: Thomas Lee was rich in wealth, influence, power, resources, and connections, but was not rich in faith. “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” (I Timothy 6:17) The rich are uncertain objects to place faith or hope.
Am I rich in faith?