Tuesday, March 12, 2013

What is Biblical Prosperity?

By Zoe Smith


Is it just me or do you sometimes struggle with relating finances and religious principles? Didn't it say in the Bible that the love for money is the root of all evil? Does that mean that we cannot enjoy the things money can buy? It would seem like you have to choose between being good-- or being rich.

Its a good thing that as we progressed in knowledge; the light of true biblical prosperity was also revealed. The good news is we dont have to be poor to earn Gods favor. Quite the opposite, God wants to pour out abundance and prosperity in our lives.

So where do we find what God says about money and possessions? The scriptures clearly outline several principles on biblical prosperity that will help us find out. First of all, there is no doubting that God wants to see us prosperous (Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 35:27; John 10:10). Once upon a time, God called a man named Abraham to follow Him, promising to bless him abundantly. And God did. More than that, God gave Abraham a miracle in his old age-- a beloved son. Can you see this? God will not only cause you to succeed in life, He is more than willing to give you your most cherished desire as well.

Tithing is an essential part in walking in God's plan of prosperity (Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 10:10). Of course God does not need money. He owns the whole universe he has no use for money. He has use for faith. Tithing reflects this and this gives God something to work with in pouring out blessings into your life. It's uncomfortable at first but God will always provide for those who trust in Him.

You cannot go wrong in investing in Gods supernatural economy. Whatever you give, expect a higher return for it (Luke 6:38; Deuteronomy 28; Matthew 6:33). View your money, your obedience, your every thought and action as a seed you are sowing. All things are accounted for. What you sow you shall reap so make sure the seeds you sow are of everlasting value.

Before God can bless you with prosperity you need to ask yourself honestly, can God trust you with it? You need to be a faithful steward even with the little you have (mark 10:17; Luke 12:48; 1 Timothy 6:17) so that when your breakthrough comes your heart is prepared. Enjoy the comfort things and material possessions can give you, but do not let it take first place in your life. It's not bad to have money, but do not make building your fortune your life. You cannot serve both God and money so serve God and make money serve you.

Finally, God gives us the power to produce riches (Deuteronomy 8:18; 2 Corinthians 8; Philippians 4:14-18). God desires to bless you that you may have the opportunity to bless those around you too. There is grace and peace that fills you in serving a friend.

The reason for abundance and prosperity is to make the world beautiful, not just for ourselves but for other people as well. Do not preoccupy yourself unnecessarily with the pursuit of money"it will find you. Aspire instead for obedience, faith and a deeper relationship with God and your fellow man, these are the true riches you cannot put a price on.




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