Thursday, March 28, 2013

Walking In 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.

As man continued to grow in knowledge, information regarding biblical prosperity got clearer and clearer. Fortunately, man doesn't have to starve for the salvation of his soul. In fact, God says He desires to bless you with more than enough - with overflowing abundance and prosperity.

So we ask, what then does God say about money and possessions? Several bible verses relating to biblical prosperity give us the answers. First of all, God wants His people to prosper (Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 35:27; John 10:10). Once there was a man God called out to a foreign land and he obeyed. His name was Abraham. His faith was rewarded with so much wealth and favor among men; he also got his most cherished gift?a beloved son. As you can see, God provided this miracle for Abraham on top of all his blessings because God is a generous God.

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.

Tithing is a seed. So is your obedience to His laws, your offerings and your participation in bringing His message of Love to His people. Remember, you reap what you sow and a harvest is coming for the faithful. Whatever you have given is recorded and you will be blessed for it. It is not that you are paying to be blessed; you are giving to a God who will bless you according to His riches not yours so you can afford to be generous yourself.

Media and society paints a pretty picture of wealth. While money allows you a comfortable life and frees you from worries that poor people have - it does not free you from the responsibility God clearly expects from you that comes alongside riches (Mark 10:17; Luke 12:48; 1 Timothy 6:17). God created things so by all means, enjoy owning them. However, it is not something you should put your trust in. Having an unhealthy obsession with money makes many people sin and God will not allow that for His children. Guard your heart and keep your priorities straight.

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.

Abundance and prosperity should never be utilized for self gain and pride. That is not what it's for. Take pleasure in the work of your hands and the fruits of your labor; however never forget that it cannot replace relationships with God and your fellow man. True wealth is about being healthy, being generous and being happy in God. Be all that you can be and money will find its way to you.




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