With me are riches and honor, lasting wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than solid gold, and my harvest than pure silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, giving wealth as an inheritance to those who love me, and filling their treasures. Proverbs 8:18-21 HCSB
Some preachers on television preach a “Prosperity Gospel.” Their message is, “Follow God and do what He says then you can expect to receive financial wealth and prosperity.” This is a false message. Many fine Christians are devoted to God and follow His ways but live in very poor conditions. God does not promise us material wealth. He provides us with an abundance of grace and forgiveness that will eventually give us the riches of abundant life here on earth and eternal life in heaven.
These verses certainly sound like a “Prosperity Gospel,” but every verse must be examined in light of all of the Scriptures. God’s Word is infallible and without error, so one must look at these verses in context with other verses to discern the true meaning. Wisdom leads a person away from selfishness and greed toward thinking of others and giving. As one honors and helps others, he will discover lasting wealth that is found in serving others. As a result, he forgets himself and follows the paths of righteousness and justice. Following God and making wise choices may lead to wealth and prosperity, but more importantly it will lead to a life filled with many blessings. As Christians, our greatest wealth is our relationship with Christ and the promise of forgiveness and eternal life that we will someday receive.
Challenge: Don’t believe the lies of the “Prosperity Gospel” preachers. Be wise and do what is right. It will lead to self-control of reckless spending and pave the way for financial security based on honest earnings. Wisdom is worth far more than material wealth.