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“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
There are three key things God wants to give us. Prosperity, Hope and a Future. Let’s look at the different ways He does these things for us.
Prosperity–
- Obedience- God will prosper us when we are obedient to Him. Abram was obedient in leaving his home in Haran and although he was already wealthy God blessed him with even more wealth in silver, gold and livestock for being obedient – Genesis 13:2. In fact he and Lot had so many possessions the land couldn’t support them both so they had to separate.
- Tithing- Malachi 3:10-12 says if we are faithful in paying our tithes God will pour out such a blessing on us that we won’t have room to contain it. He will also prevent Satan from destroying us. Satan is always trying to attack and destroy us. But if we’re obedient in tithing God will prosper us abundantly and stop Satan from destroying our finances.
- Perseverance- Genesis 29:15-30 When others treat us poorly or unfairly if we keep our focus and press on God will prosper and bless us. Laban deceived Jacob by giving him Leah when he had asked for Rachel to be his wife. Yet, he persevered and worked another seven years for Rachel. Jacob was faithful in tending Laban’s flocks even when he wanted to return home. Despite being deceived by Laban and having his wages changed he remained focused and didn’t try to retaliate in any way and God prospered him through it all.
- Children- God also prospered him with children. Psalm 127:3-5 says Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.
Hope-
- Everlasting Life– We have two good examples of this in the thief on the cross and in Lazarus and the rich man. The thief obviously had not lived a stellar life, however before his time on this earth was over he believed Jesus was the Son of God and was granted everlasting life with Jesus in Heaven. Matthew 27:38, Luke 23:32-43 & Mark 15:27.
- In the story of Lazarus and the rich man Lazarus didn’t have much in his life on this earth, but he evidently believed in God because the Bible says when he died he was carried to Abraham’s bosom. Luke 16:19-31.
- Forgiveness of Sins- The Samaritan Woman was looked down on in society. However, one day she met Jesus, He changed her life! John 4:1-18 & 4:39-42 The woman caught in adultery, Jesus told her “go and sin no more!” He didn’t condemn her, He simply told her to stop sinning. John 8: 1-11
- Acceptance- God accepts us even when society says we are the lowest of the lowly. God loves us! Jesus didn’t discriminate, He hung out with tax collectors, had His feet washed by a prostitute, talked to a Samaritan (they were outcasts, because they were half Jew and half Gentile). He associated with the one’s no one really wanted anything to do with.
A Future-
- Healing- When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead He gave him a future. Satan tried to stop his future through illness and then death. God had other plans for Lazarus. John 11:38-44.
- Provision– In 1 Kings 17:7-24 the widow was preparing to make her last meal for her and her son before they died. Elijah told her to make something for him and then something for herself and her son. When she did what the man of God told her there was plenty of flour and oil. The widow had plans to die, God had other plans for her, therefore giving her a future.
Side note: The world’s definition of prosperity is -The condition of being successful or thriving, especially economic well being.
God’s definition-Prosperity is not about attaining wealth or living a life of luxury, but, about thriving as the person God created you to be. Sure, God may bless you with wealth as you allow Him to change you, but there’s no guarantee. True prosperity is about living a life fully engaged with the principles laid out in the Bible.