One of the statements that struck me as I was listening to Pastor Peter Tanchi preach was that many people pass the test of poverty but few pass the test of prosperity. And I understand what he means.

When we are lacking, we never forget to rely on the Lord for help even in simple matters. During the time when I had very little money on hand, I was very thankful for the occasional nice meal that the Lord would bless me with, no matter how simple or cheap it was. And at times of hardship, being safe, having a house to come home to, and a bed to sleep in are already things I can be grateful for.

But when the Lord blesses us financially, the tendency is to start relying on the finances and on the material blessings instead of trusting in the Lord. Can’t understand a certain subject matter, let me use my money to buy a book on that. Worried about how to finance the future needs of the family, better start saving for that by investing in different types of securities or insurance. Can’t keep up with the fashion styles and gadgets of others, better buy new stuff.

I am not saying that spending and planning for the future is bad, but when these things take priority over God in our lives, and when we are focusing on wants more than on needs, we are endangering ourselves. Perhaps the current global financial crisis is a reminder from the Lord that savings, stocks, and property can by no means keep us secure in our lifetime.  There is a parable in the Bible about a rich man who marveled at his wealth, and thought of building more store houses to amass more riches, only to die that same night. Death, sickness, economic crisis, or natural disasters can easily wipe away that financial pillar some people place their faith on.

It is always better to put your faith and trust in the Lord. God only adds material blessings if we seek His Kingdom first. God should always have first priority in our lives.