August 10th, 2023

Even the most cursory perusal of “Christian” television will reveal an inordinate emphasis on prosperity. Should you happen to tune in during one of the annual Share-A-Thons, that’s virtually all you will hear. Apparently it is the most effective way to get viewers to give. Promise them a “hundred fold” return and the phone lines light up. The question I am wrestling with is not whether it works or not, but is it Christian? Or to put it another way, is material prosperity a legitimate spiritual goal?

“But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.”

— 1 Timothy 6:11

Lord Jesus, forgive us for making material prosperity a goal. Deliver us from the seductive power of materialism. In Your holy name I pray. Amen.