Day 26 Through The Bible

Day 26: The True Prosperity That Comes From God

In today’s world, prosperity is often equated with financial success, social status, or wealth accumulation. These are the measures that the world typically uses to gauge a person’s success. But the Bible offers a radically different definition of prosperity—one that’s not centered on material wealth but on the presence and favor of God in our lives.

Biblical Principle: Absolute Truth from God's Word

God’s Word teaches us a profound truth: When God is with you, He will prosper you. However, it’s essential to understand that God’s idea of prosperity is not always aligned with the world’s. While the world measures success by outward accomplishments, God’s prosperity is seen in the deep, transformative work He does within us and how His presence in our lives impacts those around us. The prosperity God gives isn’t just about wealth or power—it’s about His favor, His presence, and His power working in and through our lives in ways that reflect His glory.

In the story of Joseph, we see a perfect example of this kind of prosperity. In Genesis 39:2-3, the Bible says:

“And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man, and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him and made all that he did to prosper in his hand.” (Genesis 39:2-3)

Joseph’s prosperity didn’t come from his status or strength but from God’s presence. Even though Joseph was in a foreign land, far from his family and homeland, and living in a situation that could easily have led him to despair, God was with him. As a result, everything Joseph did prospered. And more importantly, his master saw that the Lord was with him. Joseph’s life and work testified to God’s power and presence.

Practical Application: Drawing Close to God for True Prosperity

For God to prosper us, we need to walk closely with Him. This means that our relationship with God is not passive—it requires intentionality. We can’t expect God’s prosperity to manifest if we are distant from Him, living in sin, or trying to live with one foot in the world and one foot in the Kingdom.

In James 4:8, we are given clear instructions on how to draw near to God:

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” (James 4:8)

To experience the prosperity that comes from God, we must actively pursue a closer relationship with Him. Here are three practical steps to apply this truth to your life:

1. Cleanse Your Hands
   The Bible calls us to "cleanse our hands," which means living a life of purity and integrity. This means turning away from sin, avoiding things that separate us from God, and living holily. Just like Joseph did when he ran from the temptation of Potiphar’s wife, we must actively flee from evil. It's not always easy, but purity of heart and action is essential to experiencing God's blessings and prosperity.

2. Purify Your Heart
   Purifying your heart means aligning your thoughts, desires, and motives with God’s will. It’s not enough to act morally; our hearts must be entirely devoted to Him. This requires continual surrender to God’s Word and His leading. Joseph’s heart was wholly devoted to God, even when faced with great adversity, and his actions reflected this. Similarly, we must ask God to purify our hearts and help us focus on His purposes.

3. End the Battle of the Double-Mindedness
   The Bible warns against being “double-minded,” which means trying to serve two masters: God and the world. This inner conflict can prevent us from experiencing true prosperity because it divides our focus and allegiance. We must end the battle between our flesh and spirit to receive God's blessings fully. We must follow God wholeheartedly and trust in His ways above our own.

When we follow these steps—cleansing our hands, purifying our hearts, and ending double-mindedness—we align ourselves with God’s life purpose. And as we draw near to Him, He promises that He will draw near to us, and His prosperity will be evident in everything we do.

God’s Prosperity Is a Testimony to Others

The ultimate purpose of God prospering us isn’t just for our benefit but for the sake of His Kingdom. Just as Joseph’s prosperity became a testimony to his master, so too should our lives reflect the goodness and power of God. When people see the favor of God in our lives—whether in our relationships, our work, or the way we handle trials—they should be drawn to the truth that God is real and at work in our lives.

True prosperity—the kind that comes from walking closely with God—should make us a light to the world. It should point others to the goodness of God, His power, and His grace.

Conclusion

True prosperity doesn’t look like what the world defines. It’s not about wealth or fame but God’s presence in our lives. When we draw near to God, cleanse our hands, purify our hearts, and stop being double-minded, God will prosper us in ways that testify to His glory. Just as He was with Joseph, He will be with us, and others will see His favor at work in our lives. Let’s pursue His presence with a heart of purity and devotion, trusting His prosperity will be the most marvelous testimony of all.