Pray, Go, Give Blog

It may be impossible to obey God and not be blessed in the broad sense of the word. My thoughts are about focus and action. When we intentionally live simpler lives we can allow more of what comes in to go out.

I do have to confess my gut level dislike for the commonly promoted "doctrine of prosperity" as preached by many. "God wants me to be rich" approach.

I currently have several things for sale so I can craft a simpler life going into the future.

I LOVE THIS! And interestingly...I was literally just googling for thought on this topic...

I had a conversation last night...with friends of ours who approach life contemplating what Big plan or Big purpose God may have for them by asking themselves “what would they do in their lives *if* money was no object...” hmmmm.

I used to ask myself the same question...but I try not to any more...and here’s why:

What unfolded was a conversation about how, in their opinion, it's important even noble to visualize this one theme so that you can set the appropriate goals and strive toward that end...you'' eventually be financially compensated, perhaps earn respect and acclaim for your achievement...and a sense of divine purpose.

Lately, I feel like I can't over look the fact that I live in a very privileged nation where there is abundance and opportunity to do more that just sustain life at it's most basic level..This isn’t globally consistent...For some...I imagine they visualize full bellies, modest shelter, safety, life free of disease and suffering...a peaceful existence for their kids...for some perhaps they hope to die knowing they were truly loved and cherished.

In my past, I was more comfortable with purpose and prosperity thinking...Today however, I lean more towards the thought How can I "be here now in love"...what do I possess NOW...that I can release to bless others NOW? What truth do I know NOW that I can share...that will bring freedom, empower and encourage others...

It seems visualizing a big plan or purpose for our lives isn't bad...neither is having stuff...but if it causes you to forget that because you live in this country you are already so far ahead of the game...blessed beyond measure...IMHO...we must not forget that you have a spiritual obligation to give away that abundance...or miss the invitation of Jesus to follow him...and his gospel to advance the Kingdom of God on earth...now.

Great stuff Joy...thank you for joining the conversation.

Words can not describe how much I agree with that! It's such a monumental relief on my spririt to know that in the grand sceem of things God does not give a rip about money he cares about you and me growing and entering the kingdom of God:) AMEN!!!!!

Jenae...yes that is the bottom line. I don't have issues with how much we make or receive. My interest in how much we let go through us to others. What if we intentionally lived simpler so we could bless others?

oh boy...this is something that really boils my blood...especially selling the prosperity model to third world countries.

It may be impossible to obey God and not be blessed in the broad sense of the word. My thoughts are about focus and action. When we intentionally live simpler lives we can allow more of what comes in to go out.

I do have to confess my gut level dislike for the commonly promoted "doctrine of prosperity" as preached by many. "God wants me to be rich" approach.

I currently have several things for sale so I can craft a simpler life going into the future.

"The 'prosperity gospel' is so narcissicistic and anti'"lordship' of Jesus."

Powerful words! So true! Thanks for your boldness & fearlessness in addressing the "gospel of $" rapidly infiltrating & contaminating the modern day church!