Prosperity in God’s Economy
His soul will abide in prosperity and his descendents will inherit the land. — Psalm 25:13, NASB
In a world of get-rich-quick schemes, where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, is there hope that we can ever attain true wealth? The mountain of bills on our desks and queue of messages from bill collectors might lead us to believe there is no way we will ever abide in prosperity, but God’s Word tells us that in His economy money is not a prerequisite for abundant living. There are those who preach a sort of prosperity theology that promises material wealth to those who love God and live according to His Word. God does indeed prosper those who fear Him (Psalm 25:12), but as verse thirteen indicates it is a prosperity in our souls, not our savings accounts, that God bestows on those who follow Him. God does indeed promise His provision for our needs (Philippians 4:19), but He knows that true wealth comes from the peace and contentment of a soul that has been redeemed and reconciled in Him. Paul understood this principle. In Philippians 4:11-13, he writes: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”
When we had our first child nearly eighteen years ago, my husband and I prayerfully decided to forego my full-time income and rely on God’s provision as I left the workplace to be a stay-at-home mom. Through the years I have worked off and on to help make ends meet, but always with the knowledge that it is God, not any employer, who provides for us. During seasons when I have not worked outside the home, God has provided for us through consulting work and unexpected monetary gifts. The bills have been paid and we have had everything we need. Content to do without some of the modern conveniences and luxuries that others can afford, we have savored the true riches of a close walk with Him and the joy of a close relationship with our children. In our seasons of lack, God has taught us to be better stewards so that when we do have extra money, we can use it to bless others and glorify Him.
“Lord, give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God (Proverbs 30:8-9).”
