Wealth RedefinedMuestra

### Abundance Redefined Human beings are designed for abundance. When we were created, God placed us in a beautiful garden with everything we needed at our fingertips. The book of Proverbs says that poverty comes because of laziness (Proverbs 24:33–34). In Deuteronomy, poverty is understood as a curse (Deuteronomy 28:47–48). In fact, the word “abundance” is found several times in the Scriptures. It means “an extremely plentiful or over-sufficient quantity or supply.” However, the extremely plentiful supply that the Word of God promises to God’s children goes beyond material possessions; it extends to the emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and relational spheres. If our hearts are not right, material abundance can lead us into slavery to our own wealth. We could become haughty and lose sight of what is important. The fear of losing our riches can rob us of our joy. The human heart is easily persuaded, which is why Jesus warned us to be on guard against all kinds of greed, because one's life does not consist in the abundance of material goods. Any pleasure taken in excess can become an addiction. Conversely, our possessions, positions, and relationships can lead to a greater impact as we seek to serve others with them. Material abundance can become a blessing when we use it for others’ benefit. The apostle Paul exhorts those who have riches to be rich in good works and to be generous, for in doing so they are laying up treasures for the coming age. Taking pleasure in the right things can lead to a life filled with gratitude toward God and others. The truest source of abundance is God’s grace. When we seek and live in grace, we are equipped with abundance for every good deed. Jesus said that He came to give us life abundantly. Lord, we thank You for Your promise that if we share our material abundance, Your favor will more than provide whatever we need. Help us to seek Your ways so that there will never be a lack of resources to do every good deed. You reached us and prepared us for this. It is an amazing promise. It is amazing grace.