Amos 5:18-20 NLT
There are times when God’s people experience outward prosperity, and everything appears to be going well. However, be aware that earthly riches can be deceptive and create in us an attitude of hypocrisy because at the same time we are prospering, we can experience an increase in sin, resulting in great moral and spiritual decline. Unfortunately, this is what was happening in Israel during Amos’ time. Many kept their religious festivals but remained disobedient, unjust, and hypocritical; today, many of us keep our worship service and do the same. Israel failed to heed God’s call to repent and turn back to Him; therefore, Amos pronounced woe to those who were unrepentant but selfishly longed for the coming of the Lord’s day.
God is not against material prosperity; He just does not want us to mistake it for the measure of being blessed and highly favored. He measures believers’ prosperity by the heart that is fixed and character that reflects trust in Him through good and bad times and not by earthly possessions. According to 3 John 1:2, John blessed Gaius, saying, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” Also, Paul told the Philippians (4:19), “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” God’s desire is for His people to be well, successful, and have all needs met in every aspect of their life. So today, Children of God, don’t let earthly prosperity give you a false sense of security.
Lift your voice and give God, “Glory!”