Ok, I'm going to be honest, I have no idea what the first sentence means, and nothing inspiring was coming to me, so I had to do a little research. Basically what I found is first off it is the "believer" that is being spoken to, and this particular believer must not have much money, because it is being contrasted against someone with much money in the next sentence. When you think back to many of those that God called in the Bible, Esther, Daniel, Joseph, these people were poor in finances and in family status but did great things for God. So what a great encouragement for those of us that are poor in finances and family status...rejoice, because your financial or birthright, or popular status does not mean anything to what a person can do through Christ!
Next, we are told that if you have plenty of money, you should be humble about it. I've seen far too many families destroyed over money. I've seen far too many relationships destroyed over money. And I've saw money disappear out my hands faster than I'd hoped. I believe that is what is trying to be said here. It doesn't say money is bad, it says don't let money control you over what God wants to bless you with.
What does a good life look like to you? I remember as a little girl, I wanted a castle, with a pool, I had drawn out my house and planned it out to be just like Cinderella. I was going to have Prince Charming and all his wealth scoop me up and take me away so all I had to do was sit around and look pretty. Maids and Servants and the whole 9 yards. When I grew up, I still had some of that stuck in my head. At age 31 I gave my life to Christ...and the entire story took on a new meaning. I have absolutely all I've ever dreamed of. A strong family, amazing boys, a heart for Jesus and a "Daddy" (God) who owns it all. He knows what I need before I ever ask or think, and more times than not it looks more like love than gold.
THE MESSAGE: 9-11
When down-and-outers get a break, cheer! And when the arrogant rich are brought down to size, cheer! Prosperity is as short-lived as a wildflower, so don’t ever count on it. You know that as soon as the sun rises, pouring down its scorching heat, the flower withers. Its petals wilt and, before you know it, that beautiful face is a barren stem. Well, that’s a picture of the “prosperous life.” At the very moment everyone is looking on in admiration, it fades away to nothing.