But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. ~ Jeremiah 17:7
Let me share a perspective on God’s blessing. Many people think that everyone wants to be rich. But that is not true. As a child, I remember how those around me who barely made ends meet in a good month—scoffed at those who had money. Wrapped in our smug idea that we somehow were better because we were “more saved,” “more religious,” and “more Christ-like.” Our scarcity was worn like a badge of honor. I am now still grappling with this fallacy.
As an educator, I have watched many gifted students refuse their gifts and willingly fail. I understand their choices. It was just the grace of God and my mom’s encouragement that allowed me not to be one of them. Even in doing good—there was and is still—an acceptance of not doing too good. Others who grew up in poverty understand this duality. It haunts us. We struggle to move past “money is the root of all evil” (1 Tim. 6:10). But we must learn to understand that the Bible tells us that the love of money is the problem (1 Tim. 6:10). It is okay to have possessions as long as those possessions do not have us (Proverbs 21:20). Remember, the Lord is our shepherd, we shall not want (Psalm 23:1).
God permits us to be blessed (money included):
- Deuteronomy 8:18: God empowers individuals to generate wealth.
- Psalm 37:4: God fulfills the righteous desires of those who delight in Him.
- Malachi 3:10: By faithfully giving, God pours out abundant blessings upon the giver.
- Matthew 6:33: Seek God’s will and His kingdom and He will provide for our needs and bless us accordingly.
- Proverbs 10:22: God’s blessings can lead to wealth, emphasizing that it comes as a result of His favor rather than solely through our effort.
- 2 Corinthians 9:6: The principle of sowing and reaping, suggests that generous giving can result in abundant blessings from God.
- Proverbs 3:9-10: Honor God with our possessions and offerings, and we are promised overflowing abundance as a result.
- Psalm 112:1-3: Fear the Lord and delight in His commands and we will be blessed with wealth and riches.
- Luke 6:38: Give freely and receive in abundance.
- Philippians 4:19: God provides for our needs abundantly, based on His riches and glory in Christ Jesus.
God is a loving and caring Father who desires that we be blessed. And His blessing includes not merely material provision. His blessing comprises:
- Spiritual Provisions: (growth and relationship with Him) – salvation, forgiveness, guidance, wisdom, peace, joy, spiritual gifts, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
- Health and Healing: (physical, emotional, and mental healing) – physical health, healing from sickness or ailments, and the ability to experience overall well-being.
- Relationships and Community: (love, support, companionship, and a sense of belonging) – healthy and fulfilling relationships with family, friends, and community.
- Guidance and Direction: (clarity, wisdom, discernment, and a sense of purpose and calling) – guidance and direction in life’s decisions and challenges.
- Protection and Safety: (protection and safety from harm, danger, and adversity) – the sense of security and being shielded from various threats or difficulties.
- Peace and Contentment: (inner peace, contentment, and the ability to experience joy regardless of circumstances) – fulfillment and satisfaction in life through a deepening relationship with God.
- Eternal Life: (promise of eternal life) – assurance of salvation and the hope of spending eternity in the presence of God.
God is taking us to a new height with His blessing. He permits us to enjoy. . . Be ready!
God bless… I am Wiley’s granddaughter.
