The Father's Menu

The Father's Menu

Apostle Dr. Richard Udoh

Friday, December 27, 2024

LABOR NOT TO BE RICH

The scriptures provide a profound warning about the pursuit of wealth: “Do not labor to be rich; cease from your own wisdom” (Proverbs 23:4). While wealth in itself is not evil, it can be deceitful and entangle the hearts of those who prioritize it above God. Jesus highlights this truth in Mark 4:19, where the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the Word, rendering it unfruitful. Wealth, while beneficial, can be a dangerous snare when pursued without wisdom and godly focus.

The parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21) serves as a powerful cautionary tale. This man amassed wealth, confident in his ability to indulge in luxury, but he did not realize his life would end that very night. His labor for riches was ultimately in vain, a great folly that left him spiritually bankrupt. As Christians, we must shift our focus from laboring for riches to laboring to be blessed. The Bible reminds us to rely not on human wisdom but on God's infinite wisdom. Jesus emphasizes in Matthew 7:24 that obeying His words is the foundation of true wisdom, leading to lasting prosperity. Proverbs 8:18 further highlights that “durable riches and righteousness” are companions of godly wisdom.

Riches alone can deceive, leading people away from God and into spiritual peril. Jesus Himself said it is difficult for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. However, when we labor for God’s blessing, prosperity is accompanied by purpose, gratitude, and a heart aligned with His will. True prosperity flows from obedience to God’s Word and reliance on His wisdom. Do not labor to be rich; instead, seek to be blessed, for the blessings of the Lord make rich and add no sorrow (Proverbs 10:22). When God blesses, He enables us to serve Him wholeheartedly and use our resources for His glory.

Confession:

I declare, I am blessed and highly favored! I labor with diligence and faithfulness to experience the blessings of the Lord. I serve God with my time, skills, and finances, prioritizing His kingdom above all else. As I give myself to His service, I prosper in all I do. Amen!

Further Reading:

Eccl 6:2 “A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.”

Rev 5:12 “Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.”

Read through the Bible in 1 year: Zechariah 10:1-11:17 Revelation 18:1-24 Psalm 146:1-10 Proverbs 30:33

Read through the bible in 2 years: Isa 46-47 & Pr 22.17-29