Don't be proud when you prosper

As Christians, when everything goes well in life, we mustn't make the mistake of thinking that God is only the God of those who prosper because the Bible says; God is the "Father of the fatherless and protector of widows. He settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity" (Ps. 65:5-6).

Also, when we go through trials and suffering of all kinds, we mustn't make the mistake of thinking that God is only the God of those who prosper because the Bible says; "a wicked and ruthless man flourishes (prospers) like an amazing green tree, but he soon passes away and is no more; though I look for him, he cannot be found" (Ps. 37:35-36).

Whether we are prospering or withering, our lives must be marked with the statement; "the righteous shall live by faith". Habakkuk further explains this attitude of faith by declaring;

"Though the fig tree does not bud

and there are no grapes on the vines,

though the olive crop fails

and the fields produce no food,

though there are no sheep in the pen

and no cattle in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the Lord,

I will be joyful in God my Savior.

The Sovereign Lord is my strength;

he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,

he enables me to tread on the heights."

(2:4 and 3:17-19)

Yes, for the time being, everything may have gone from life. But the prophet's trust is in the Lord God who will give him the strength, who will make his feet like the feet of deer so that he can run in life. He will also take him to the heights of success and prosperity.

Therefore, friends, if you are prospering, give God the glory and if you are going through hard times, put your trust in the God who will take you to the heights once again.