“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
– Matthew 6:24
Yesterday, we discussed how God wants to prosper us. However, when I talk about this concept, it’s important to clarify what I mean when I use the word. Unfortunately, the idea of prosperity has been distorted and taken out of context by a number of teachers through the years and this has given rise to something called the “Prosperity Gospel,” which centers around worldly wealth. When I was attending Oral Roberts University, I listened to a guest speaker who had the entire audience put their hands up in the air, grab some imaginary riches, and say “Money Cometh!” Somehow, he claimed, if you spoke a fortune into existence, it would divinely find you. This, however, is not what I believe prosperity means. It’s not a guarantee of a Ferrari or a private jet (though if God does bless you with those things, that’s great), but rather an ability to find success within your specific area of influence. It means that whether you’re a doctor, an artist, or a businessperson, you’re thriving in your calling. People who enjoy Biblical prosperity are moving ahead and going places, but they’re doing it in God’s time and within the scope of His priorities. Taking pride in how much or how little we possess takes Him out of the picture and puts our focus on something else — either way, we risk falling into idolatry. My friend, God wants you to thrive! His Fatherly heart is delighted when you enjoy a vibrant, successful, and blessed existence that centers on His Spirit and His truth. That said, if wealth becomes the object of your focus, you won’t enjoy the genuine prosperity of heart and soul that He intends for you to have. Your Savior wants you to be full of joy, full of peace, and full of His power so that your life reflects His heart of abundance to others. While the enemy seeks to distort your priorities and tip the scales out of balance, with Jesus at the center, you are steadfastly planted and your Heavenly estate is secured by Christ’s bountiful and unending riches! |
Prayer
Jesus, help me to thrive this year, and keep my heart aligned with your priorities so I can experience true prosperity.
Reflection
Do you enjoy a Biblically-centered, prosperous life? Why or why not?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
I had to repent this morning from playing the lottery. I dropped $300 on Mega Millions hoping to hit the $447M jackpot with a 1 in 300M chance of doing so. God got my attention before this issue turned into an addiction. I pray that the LORD helps me to use the gifts and talents he gave me to thrive and bless others, in Jesus name.
-JoeG