Saturday, July 25, 2009

And God Said: Let Them Be Rich-Understanding 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.

You will always find tithing as a foundational principle in attracting wealth. Today we may call it different things but the fact remains: you give and more will be given to you. God has no need for our money and possessions. Tithing is a sign of our trust and obedience to Him. Give God 10% of your money and watch the storehouses of heaven pour out such blessings you will not have room enough for it (Malachi 10:10; Leviticus 27:30).

Prosperity is then a return of your investment in God (Luke 6:38; Deuteronomy 28; Matthew 6:33). Your tithes and offerings, your obedience to His law, partaking in His work here on earth-- these are all seeds planted on fertile ground. It is all accounted for and a bountiful harvest is coming your way. You do not give in order to be 'paid back'. No, you can afford to give because you know God is abundantly generous to give you more than what you asked for.

Being rich comes with great responsibility. You have to be a faithful steward to what God has entrusted you with (Mark 10:17; Luke 12:48; 1 Timothy 6:17). Having things are great. You should enjoy them but never make the mistake of loving possessions too much or putting your faith in them. Money should serve you not the other way around. It's not an unholy thing to have, but the single-minded pursuit of it causes many to sin. When prosperity comes, be sure that your heart and priorities are protected.

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.

It's not about having the best and the most possessions. If this is your end goal, when prosperity comes it will be like a clanging of an old bell in an empty cathedral. Abundance and prosperity should resound with joy and gladness not just in your life but with those around you. Enjoy life to the fullest with what you have but put God and your fellow man before money. True wealth is found inside you. Pursue generosity, service, love and obedience-and peace and contentment will be yours.

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