The Problem With Prosperity

Good Morning!! Most people equate a "test of faith" with a problem,...a severe illness, a financial setback, a nagging temptation, or some interpersonal conflict. But there is another profound principle of scripture,...and that is; prosperity poses a stiff test of faith. When we're healthy, earning promotions at work, enjoying our children, or even flourishing in our service for Christ we are prone to forget God, or start to pay less attention to Him. When we're successful, pride tends to work its way into our hearts.

Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that I need, or I shall be full, and deny you, and say, "Who is the LORD?" or I shall be poor, and steal, and profane the name of my God.—Proverbs 30:8-9 (NRSV)

Success isn't wrong. It may even be a direct answer to prayer, a gracious gift from God. Yet if we aren't vigilant about giving God the credit and using our blessings for the good of others, prosperity becomes just another trap of the enimey.

The true purpose of our prosperity, is the opportunity to serve God, and others better.

Dear God, remind us that You are the source of every success, and any prosperity that we may experience. Keep us from the sin of pride over the blessings You send our way. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

" Loving our enemies begins by praying for them."