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Prosperity

Introduction

Isn’t it odd that prosperity follows adversity so closely in Joseph's story? Isn’t it ironic that when Joseph was a free man, he struggled with great adversity, but in his slave state, he and everything under his care prospered? Perhaps the tapestry of heaven is being revealed just a bit…

The Reasons for Prosperity

Prosperity often comes as the result of hard work. Rewards are accumulated over time in response to “meritorious service,” we might say. However, there are exceptions to this rule when folks’ hard work is not rewarded with tangible wealth.

The Biblical account doesn’t really share the details of Joseph’s work ethic, so there might be another reason to consider for prosperity – God’s grace. That’s right; sometimes, people prosper because of “unmerited favor.”

• Have you experienced prosperity due to either/both of these reasons?

The Effects of Prosperity

Regardless of the reasons for prosperity, the effects reside in two main camps: challenges and opportunities. Though the challenges of prosperity aren’t usually the first thing to come to mind, they are numerous. With more things come more responsibilities. Two houses create twice the cleaning/maintenance issues as one house. Greater prosperity can also increase our profile in society. The old axiom “the higher you climb the flagpole, the harder the wind blows” comes into play. Jealousy of others and temptation for us can be quite challenging.

On the positive side of prosperity is the opportunity to bless others. Two houses can accommodate friends/family/those in need in a way that only one house can’t. When tangible resources are in abundance, and the standard of living is moderated, the excess for giving/sharing can be great.

• Do you know of someone who has experienced either/both challenges and opportunities of prosperity?

Will Prosperity Master You?

• Whether it comes through work or grace, how will you use the resources of prosperity?
• How can you minimize the challenges of prosperity while maximizing the opportunities?