There is reasonable hope that the future holds the possibility for the individual to realize some of his deeply cherished ambitions: a home where he may dwell in safety, security in gainful employment, freedom to worship God in the way of his choice, sufficient leisure for normal recreation, and opportunity for progress in his vocation. These are commendable ambitions, and once they are achieved he doubtless will aim at a larger financial return for his efforts, accompanied by a corresponding increase in material possessions and responsibilities. Thus some may become well off, if not wealthy.
What, however, about Christ Jesus' words regarding wealth, rich men, and the accumulation of material possessions? Is there any type of wealth which won his approval? The parable of the rich man with barns too small to store his fruits concludes as follows (Luke 12:20, 21): "But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." Here, surely, is an indication that each one should strive to be "rich toward God."
Not until Christian Science came to the God-prepared consciousness of an earnest student of the Scriptures, Mary Baker Eddy, was the meaning of this phrase, "rich toward God," made clear to mankind. Her teachings indisputably set forth that man, in God's image and likeness, reflects all the attributes of God. Therefore, to be "rich toward God" means increasingly to reflect and express Godlike qualities, such as truth, gentleness, sincerity, kindness, and love.
