" WEALTH / SUCCESS "

Many people think that prosperity and success come from having power, contacts, and a relentless desire to get ahead. But the strategy for gaining prosperity that God taught Joshua goes against such criteria. He said that to succeed Joshua must(1) be strong and courageous because the task ahead would not be easy, (2) Obey God's Law, and (3) Constantly read and study the book of the law - God's Word. Now to be Successful, follow God's Words to Joshua. You may not succeed by the world's standard's, but you will be a success in God's eye's - and his opinion lasts forever. It is sometimes difficult to be happy when others are doing better than we are. To compare our success with that of others is a dangerous way to judge the quality of our lives. By comparing ourselves to others, we may be giving jealousy a foothold. Now we can avoid jealousy by rejoicing in others' success (see Romans 12:15). Now when scripture says, " IN WHATEVER HE DOES,HE PROSPERS," it does not mean immunity from failure or difficulties. Nor is it a guarantee of Health, Wealth, and Happiness.What the Bible means by prosperity is this: When we apply God's Wisdom, the fruit ( results or by-products) we bear, will be good and receive God's approval. Just as a tree soaks up water and bears luscious fruit, so we also are to soak up God's Word, producing actions and attitudes that honor God. To achieve anything worthwhile, we must have God's Word in our hearts. LAST POINT: Now I believe that prosperity can be both a Blessing and a Curse. While it can be a sign of God's blessing to those who follow Him, it carries with it the potential for Moral and Spiritual Decline. Prosperous people are tempted to become self-sufficient and proud- to take God for granted. In our prosperity, we must not forget that God is the Source of our Blessings. Until Next Time... Jim,