The Biblical Definition of Prosperity and Spiritual Success

In the Bible, the concept of prosperity is presented in two distinct but interconnected ways. For ancient Israel, prosperity was a tangible, earthly blessing promised by God when they obeyed the Lord. However, for the Christian, true and enduring prosperity is found in the spiritual realms, granted through faith and the hope of Jesus Christ. This article explores these concepts, drawing wisdom from the books of Deuteronomy, Job, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Israel’s Understanding of Earthly Prosperity

Deuteronomy 28:1-14, a promise given to the ancient Israelites, describes prosperity as a state filled with peace, abundance, provision, and freedom from oppression. Prosperity was not merely material wealth but included spiritual and emotional well-being. The Lord promised to bless them with the peace and provision they needed, free from debt and having a secure future.

Deuteronomy 28:1-14 (ESV)

‘Then it shall come about, if you carefully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all His commandments which I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. All these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb, the produce of your ground and the fare of your herds and flocks. Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. Blessed shall you be when you come in and when you go out. The Lord will cause your enemies who rise up against you to be struck down before you. They shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways. The Lord will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and he will bless you in the land which the Lord your God is giving you. The Lord will establish you as his holy people, as he has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments of the Lord your God and walk in his ways. All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God.’

Christian Understanding of Spiritual Prosperity

For the Christian, the path to prosperity is found in spiritual blessings that far outweigh tangible wealth. Spiritual prosperity is the goal of a soul in revival, one that experiences a holy zeal and deep intimacy with God. True prosperity is not measured in possessions but in eternal joy and peace, brought by an unbreakable bond with Jesus Christ. The Christian hope is to inherit eternal life and to be sealed with the Holy Spirit, marking one's position as a child of God.

Biblical verses such as Matthew 6:33 encourage believers to focus on seeking the kingdom of God and His righteousness, wherein all other earthly needs will be met.

Matthew 6:33 (ESV)

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

The Cost of True Prosperity

Understanding and embracing the Bible's teachings on prosperity is a path that requires deep introspection and self-sacrifice. Job, one of the most profound examples in the Bible, demonstrates the trials and tribulations of seeking true prosperity. In facing his own anguish and sin, Job shows the emotional and spiritual challenges one must overcome to find spiritual prosperity. The path outlined in Job and other books requires a willingness to be humbled, a readiness for trial, and an unwavering trust in God.

Job 19:20 (ESV)

“I am escaped with the skin of my teeth.”

For Job, the struggle was real, yet the promise and reward of following God's path remain clear. Whether through losing his possessions (Job 1:1-2:13) or facing staunch critics (Job 19), Job’s journey highlights the value of enduring hardships to achieve true prosperity.

The Promises of Redemption and Prosperity

Even as the path is hard, Bible prophecies like Isaiah 45:11 assure us that God is on our side and will ultimately restore us. Isaiah 60:17 speaks of prosperity through a conversion of values, where material possessions are exchanged for spiritual wealth, highlighting that true success lies not in earthly possessions but in faith and trust in God.

Isaiah 60:17 (ESV)

“‘For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood bronze, and for stones silver. And I will make your officers peace and your counselors righteousness.’”

The Bible also promises that God will restore lost years through the power of His Word, as seen in Joel 2:25. The days of struggle and humility, though challenging, are not without purpose or hope.

Lessons from Scripture

From Job’s perseverance to the promises of Isaiah, the Bible offers unparalleled wisdom on what true prosperity means. The journey to spiritual prosperity requires faith, humility, and a deep understanding of God's will.

Key Takeaways:

True prosperity is found in spiritual blessings. Jesus promises eternal life to those who seek Him. Enduring hardships and humility lead to greater spiritual prosperity.

Embracing these lessons can lead to a fulfilling life, grounded in the hope of the eternal and the promises of God.