God's Blessing

Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 5:18-20

Prosperity (owning things and having money) and happiness are not necessities. They are privileges bestowed on us by God.

Some people have many possessions and lots of money, but no real joy.

Other people have joy, peace, and contentment, but few or no possessions or money.

God gives both money and happiness at His pleasure, as He desires. He doesn't give us possessions or money simply because we want them. It's not for us to complain about what we do or don't own. We should never compare ourselves or the things God has given us with other people or what God has given to them.

God will take care of us. We will give us everything we need. He will also bless us with many things we don't need, but that He wants us to have.

Verse 19 of today's Bible reading says, "Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work — this is a gift of God." We need to trust God and His provision. We should be content with what God has blessed us with and enjoy whatever things and money He has given us, secure in the knowledge that we have God in our lives – and that is more important than any material possession! One way we can do that is by using those material gifts to do things that bring honor and glory to God.

Take a moment to thank God for all He has given to you. Then begin looking for ways to honor God with those gifts.

"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you;

never will I forsake you.'" Hebrews 13:5

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for all You've given to me. Help me to be content with it and to use it to honor You. In Jesus' name. Amen.