I thoroughly enjoy seeing the excitement of our children and grandchildren when God allows us to bless them in special ways. The joy we experience when our loved ones receive and appreciate the tokens of our affection, no matter their age, is at times overwhelming. We delight in their delight, and I know it makes God smile.
Have you ever considered how much God must delight in seeing His children prosper? If we have been righteous and obedient in our efforts, I believe God rejoices in allowing blessings to come our way. David wrote, “The Lord be exalted, Who delights in the prosperity of His servant” (Psalm 35:27b). We may not always see His generosity, but God’s graciousness abounds and is as endless as the horizon.
Prosperity is usually associated with wealth, health, and happiness, but it can be felt in other ways, too: a caring family, dedicated friends, an enjoyable job, a fulfilling ministry, or simply a lack of debt. The gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ supersedes all other gifts and blessings God has given us. This gift of grace is our greatest wealth—an eternal prosperity.
God’s Word shows us that prosperity comes with the responsibilities of obedience and diligence:
- Obey His covenants:
“So you will keep the words of this covenant and do them, in order that you may be successful in everything that you do” (Deuteronomy 29:9).
- Obey the godly teachings of those God puts over us:
“My son, do not forget my teaching, but have your heart comply with my commandments; for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you” (Proverbs 3:1-2).
- Obey God’s Word:
“But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, and on His Law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers” (Psalm 1:2-3).
- Pursue righteousness before God and others:
“Adversity pursues sinners, but the righteous will be rewarded with prosperity” (Proverbs 13:21).
- Work diligently as unto the Lord:
“When you eat the fruit of the labor of your hands, you will be happy and it will go well for you” (Psalm 128:2).
Prosperity should also come with tremendous gratitude. Our Heavenly Father rejoices in our gratitude and acknowledgment for the blessings He provides. He delights in our delight!
Scripture Reading: Psalm 100:1-5
Personal Application: As each year passes, I become increasingly more thankful for each blessing. It is easy to fall prey to the countless disruptions and disappointments life can bring, but it is far more enjoyable to count every blessing and acknowledge how much God has really prospered us. Have you recently thought about the blessings of God and how he has prospered you? Take time to count your blessings, delight in the Lord’s generosity, and give thanks. Draw close to Him, knowing “The Lord your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will rejoice over you with joy. He will be quiet in His love. He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy” (Zephaniah 3:17).
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5