The Father's Menu
Apostle Dr. Richard Udoh
Saturday, December 28, 2024
THE DECEITFULNESS OF RICHES
“He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.”
Matt 13:22
Main Text: Main text: Mark 4:19
Wealth is indeed a beautiful blessing from the Lord, but it should never take the place of God in our hearts. The story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-27 serves as a sobering reminder. Despite his eagerness to follow Jesus, he could not let go of his possessions. His wealth had such a hold on him that he refused to endure a temporary season of lack to follow Christ and gain eternal treasures.
Jesus made it clear in Matthew 10:38 that “he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” Following Christ requires self-denial and a willingness to surrender anything that hinders our relationship with Him, including our attachment to material possessions.
Earthly riches, when pursued or trusted without God at the center, have the capacity to turn a man into a fool. Such wealth leads to misplaced confidence, shifting one’s hope from Christ to possessions. Jesus warns that “the deceitfulness of riches” can choke the Word of God, rendering it unfruitful (Mark 4:19).
True prosperity, however, is found in Jesus. It is not limited to material abundance but encompasses spiritual, emotional, and eternal riches. This prosperity is wholesome in its nature, bringing peace, purpose, and alignment with God’s will. Do not fall for the deception that earthly riches are the ultimate goal in life. Wealth without Christ is empty, but with Jesus, all blessings—material and spiritual—are used for God’s glory and our good. Seek first the kingdom of God, and trust that in Him, you will find the true prosperity that satisfies both now and forever.
Confession:
I declare, I follow after Christ Jesus wholeheartedly, letting go of all He desires me to release. In surrendering to Him, I find true prosperity and eternal treasures. In Christ, I walk in power, riches, glory, honor, strength, blessing, and wisdom. I have the mind of Christ, and I thrive in His purpose for my life. Hallelujah!
Further Reading:
Matt 10:39 “He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.”
Luke 9:23 “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”
Read through the bible in 1 year: Zechariah 12:1-13:9 Revelation 19:1-21 Psalm 147:1-20 Proverbs 31:1-7
Read through the bible in 2 years: Isa 48 & Prv 23
