And God Said: Let Them Be Rich - Understanding Biblical Prosperity

By Zoe Smith


I used to find it confusing when people talk of money and the religion in the same breath. There are a lot of scriptures that talk about spiritual matters; and many wear poverty as a badge of piousness that should be admired. Does that make having money a bad thing? Do you either have money on earth or your soul in heaven?

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 is God's will for man about money and possessions? Many scripture verses allude to biblical prosperity. Scriptures boldly state that God wants us rich (Genesis 12:1-3; Psalm 35:27; John 10:10). Look back to the story of Abraham. When God called him out of Ur, Abraham was promised that he would have great prosperity and favor - and he did. He also received his miracle, his beloved son Isaac. God knows your heart's desire and give it to you on top of all the other blessings He pours in your life.

Study the scriptures for financial matters and you will find tithing to be a pivotal part in God's plan of prosperity for man(Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 10:10). This is not about paying God to get you your blessings. God doesn?t need your Dollars, heaven only transacts with Faith. When you tithe you show God that you are not only obedient, you trust His providence for you. Your faith opens a door for God to enter your life bringing blessings beyond your wildest dreams.

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.

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.

And finally, God Himself gives us the power to create wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18; 2 Corinthians 8; Philippians 4:14-18) for the intent that we too can be a blessing to others. You will enjoy success in your life while allowing yourself to be a conduit of God?s work for others. There is no worthier cause than this.

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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