Prosperity Doctrine is Self-centerdness

The prosperity doctrine is very strong in the church, and at its root it is self-centered.

James 5:3 - ".... You have hoarded wealth in the last days."

James 5:5 - " You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter."

The apostle James is rebuking those Christians who are materialistic and self-centered. The Lord has promised to meet our every need, not our every want or desire. Our Father loves to give good gifts, but hates selfishness and greed.

Often people use the O.T. scriptures to preach their prosperity theology, but don't consider why God blessed Abraham and the people of Israel. It was that they might be a blessing to the nations and the furthering of God's kingdom and glory.

2 Corinthians 9:11 re-enforces this idea. "You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God."

How many cars do you need? How big or fancy does your house need to be? How many expensive vacation trips do you need to take? How many shoe or clothes do you need? How many times do you need to eat in fancy restaurants? How much investments or savings need to be socked away? How many toys or things do you need?

Ultimately only you and God can answer these questions, but I encourage you to take a hard look at your own life. Many a person could live off of 50% of their income or returns on their investments and give the rest to help others and the work of the Lord.

Remember, your wealth and money is not yours to do with as you will, but is God's to do with as He wills.