Iliana wrote in another discussion that her happiness (prosperity gospel) was not what God is after. So, I'd like to discuss prosperity. I'd like to know what others think prosperity is. Is it material wealth or spiritual wealth or both?

mrspiggy- 3/10/2008 12:02:14 PM

Boy, this is a tough one. I've given this one a lot of thought because I think many western Churches have got it wrong. They think it means "material wealth" and while that might be a small part of it, it certainly does not mean that and only that.

In my opinion, it is joy and peace. If you trust God, walk with Him and follow his plans for you, then you will be prosperous in joy and peace. It may mean 3 square meals a days and roof over your head, but I don't think it means a big screen TV. If you are the type of person who needs that to have joy, then when you truly give your life to God, He will work on you until you can derive joy from the simple and important things.

Some have accused me of putting limits on God, or not trusting Him to actually provide wealth. If I am doing this, I apologize. I do not think that wealth is evil, especially in the hands of righteous person, but I also don't think wealth is what God has in mind for everyone. I do think peace and joy are available to all.

arsindelve- 3/10/2008 12:46:41 PM

Beloved, I wish above all things that you should prosper and be in good health, even as your soul prospers. 3 John 1:2

I love this verse because it speaks of the soul (mind, will, emotions) prospering. And good health is mentioned. So, I take it the prosper prior to good health is money. But wealth is in the eyes of the beholder. As Paul said, I've lived abound and I've lived abase. I've learned to be content in either state.I've never been wealthy by the world's standards.

My prosperity is that my 16 year old son, who the doctors declared I'd never have has never been sick, cold or hungry. To me, that's prosperity.

I told my husband recently that he's a rich man. I recently was sent an email "Interview with God" and in the email God said it is not the man who has a lot that is rich, it is the man who needs the least. I can't remember ever asking my husband what he wants and he didn't answer, "I don't need anything".

Much peace & joy be unto Arsindelve.

mrspiggy- 3/25/2008 10:26:56 PM