Omitting the critical word “love” corrupts the entire saying. Money and its use are indifferent. It is the covetousness that corrupts intent. It is the lust beyond reason that poisons people and what they do.
I’m not a preacher nor very religious. Oh, Lordy, is that an understatement. But, for too long “religious” folks have (mis)used Timothy’s words to bash those that achieve, those that accomplish things — and create lust and envy in the hearts that didn’t achieve so much. This is just petty.
Well I am a preacher, ordained in 1979 and "very religious" since I was ten years old, and I say you are exactly right, except that I can't say that this is being done particularly by religious folks. It is just a bullying intimidation tactic used by anyone. 2 Peter 3:16
True. Proverbs is filled with proverb after proverb how if you use wisdom and are diligent, that will lead to wealth and abundance. Also how sluggars and fools will have lack.