In search of better definitions

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. –Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

God was encouraging Joshua as he stepped into some big shoes – he would replace Moses as the leader of Israel and lead the young nation into their Promised Land. Three times, God told Joshua to “be strong and courageous.” Twice He reminded Joshua, “I will be with you.” Joshua’s part? Abide in God’s word – learn it, live it, love it. Keep it ever before you. Meditate on it. Obey it. THEN, you will be prosperous and successful.

The worldly definition of prosperity is plenty of material wealth. The world’s idea of success means getting what I want. Is that the bottom line? I should know and obey the Word of God so I can be rich and happy? There’s got to be more to it. And there is.

We know God promises to provide his followers with all we will need. We know that for some, that includes earthly treasure (which He intends we use to bless others, 2 Corinthians 9:11). But we also know of wealthy people who seem to have no regard for God, and faithful followers of God who are poor. Knowing all God’s promises are true, perhaps we need some better definitions.

What if prosperity meant the richness of knowing God? What if success was about joining what God is doing? Those definitions actually seem more like things God would be concerned about, and make being “prosperous and successful” something of eternal consequence.

Like Joshua, I sometimes feel overmatched by the task I see before me. There are a lot of things I can’t do. One thing I can do is be diligent about pursuing God through His word. Will that make a difference? If Joshua is any example, the answer is yes – reading through his story, I think we can properly classify him as successful.

Understanding the terminology in light of eternity has informed my belief in the possibilities of what God might do in and with my life. More than that, it has expanded the way I intercede for others. I pray often for my children and grandchildren. I have recently begun specifically praying prosperity and success for them. Based on the scripture, I know what it takes to get there and I know what the result will be. That makes me smile.

The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life. –John 6:63 (NIV)