You will eat of the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Psalm 128:2
Prosperity in and of itself is not evil. It's how we view it - how we pursue it - that causes problems. Material things have always been a sign of status, but having them or not having them has nothing to do with one's value. The value of a man is often determined by what he gives rather than what he keeps, but giving for the wrong reasons has its consequence as well.
One will never be satisfied by things.
God looks on the heart. He knows what a man worships. If he is seeking status through wealth or philanthropy, God knows. His insatiable desire for recognition will be dashed when one day he stands before the judgment seat and hears the devastating words, "I never knew you."
O Lord, we live in a time when it seems new definitions are given to the meaning of "fallen world." Technology, although a wonderful gift, has elevated man to places where he feels You are no longer necessary. There are few things that cannot be bought in this day.
I would never wish it again, but I learned many lessons about life and love through times of unemployment. There's something about complete dependence on You, Father, that helps us to reevaluate what is really important. The love of those dear to us is the greatest blessing of all.
Help me to hold nothing in my heart that I can hold in my hand. Let my heart overflow with love and compassion for Your children. Thank You, Lord, for Your amazing provision - for prosperity of character - for eternal and abundant life.