What practical steps can we take to remember God in times of plenty? A Warning Wrapped in Blessing “Hosea 13:6—‘When they had pasture, they became satisfied; and once they were satisfied, their hearts became proud. As a result, they forgot Me.’” Plenty is a gift, yet Scripture shows the human heart drifts when full. Our calling is to break that pattern before it starts. Cultivate Daily Gratitude • Begin and end every day naming three specific blessings. • Speak those praises aloud to family or friends (Psalm 103:2). • Keep a written “memory book” of answered prayers and unexpected provisions (James 1:17). Anchor Your Success to Worship • Guard a daily time in Scripture and prayer—non-negotiable, even on vacation or busy weeks (Psalm 63:1). • Commit to gathered worship; prosperity should never replace corporate praise (Hebrews 10:25). • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper regularly, keeping Christ’s sacrifice central when life feels comfortable (1 Corinthians 11:26). Give Before You Spend • Tithe first; generosity loosens wealth’s grip (Malachi 3:10). • Add spontaneous offerings whenever a bonus or gift arrives (Proverbs 3:9). • Set aside a “ready fund” for quiet acts of mercy (1 Timothy 6:18). Build Visible Reminders • Post verses on mirrors, dashboards, and device lock screens (Deuteronomy 6:9). • Place a small item—perhaps a stone from a meaningful place—where you manage finances, recalling that the Lord brought you here (Joshua 4:6-7). • Celebrate anniversaries of God’s interventions with simple family rituals. Practice Restful Dependence • Observe a weekly Sabbath rest, declaring by your pause that provision ultimately comes from God, not ceaseless effort (Exodus 20:9-10). • Take periodic “fasts” from social media or shopping to reset holy dependence (Matthew 6:16-18). Stay Humble Through Service • Schedule regular volunteer work; physical interaction with need softens a proud heart (Galatians 5:13). • Invite those with less to your table; hospitality equalizes status and fosters gratitude (Luke 14:13-14). • Mentor younger believers, passing on lessons of stewardship (2 Timothy 2:2). Invite Accountability • Share financial and spiritual goals with a trusted believer who will ask tough questions (Proverbs 27:17). • Review budgets together yearly, checking whether giving, saving, and spending still honor the Lord (Deuteronomy 8:10-14). • Confess drift quickly; hidden pride grows in silence (James 5:16). Teach the Next Generation • Retell family stories of God’s faithfulness over meals (Psalm 78:4). • Let children help decide where gifts and offerings go; cultivate their joy in generosity (Deuteronomy 6:10-12). • Celebrate their small acts of gratitude to reinforce the habit early (Proverbs 22:6). Hold Plenty with Open Hands • Remember that all resources are temporary trusts (Psalm 24:1). • Keep eternity in view; riches fade, but investing in God’s kingdom yields lasting reward (Matthew 6:19-21). • Pray, “Lord, increase my capacity to honor You, not my craving for more” (Proverbs 30:8-9). Summing Up Plenty is not the enemy; forgetfulness is. By weaving gratitude, worship, generosity, visible reminders, restful dependence, humble service, accountability, and intentional teaching into everyday life, we resist pride and keep the Giver central. The pasture may be lush, but our hearts stay bowed, and in remembering Him, we steward His blessings with joy. |
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