THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT - DOES GOD BLESS US WITH RICHES?

More Valuable Than Silver or Gold"
Still, material prosperity cannot be relied upon as a  sole indicator of God's approval and blessing.  For example, Jesus exposed the spiritually poor condition of some Christians in Laodicea when he told them: "You say: 'I am rich and have acquired riches and do not need anything at all,' but you do notknow you are miserable and pitiable and poor and blind and naked." (Revelation 3:17) Conversely, to the materially poor but spiritually healthy Chrisitans in Smyrna. Jesus said:  "I know your tribulation and poverty-but you are rich." (Revelation 2:9)  These Christians likely suffered financially at the hands of persecutors because of their faithfulness, yet they possessed riches far more valuable than silver or gold. -Proverbs 22:1; Hebrews 10:34. 

Jehovah God blesses the efforts of those who strive to do his will.  (Psalm 1:2, 3) He provides them with the strength and the resources to cope with trials, to provide for their families, and to seek first his Kingdom.  (Psalm 37:25; Matthew 6:31-33; Philippians 4;12, 13) Hence, rather than viewing material things as God's main blessing, true Christians  strive to be "rich in fine works."  By developing a close relationship  with the Creator, Christians are  "safely treasuring up for themselves a find foundation for the future." -1 Timothy 6:17-19; Mark 12:42-44. 

Next time:  HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - How to Make Real Friends -THE CHALLENGE 

From the Awake! magazine