Why is it important to remember God during times of prosperity? Setting the Scene: Deuteronomy 8:12 “Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses in which to dwell,” (Deuteronomy 8:12) God is warning Israel just before they cross into the Promised Land. Plenty is coming—full stomachs, comfortable homes, growing herds, silver and gold (vv. 13-14). The danger is not famine or war; it is forgetfulness. The Subtle Danger Prosperity Brings • Contented bellies can dull spiritual appetites (Deuteronomy 6:10-12). • Accumulated wealth can inflate pride: “then your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God” (Deuteronomy 8:14). • Riches tempt us to trust gifts over Giver (1 Timothy 6:17). • Affluence can rewrite priorities—God shifts from first to optional (Luke 12:16-21). Why Remembering God Matters 1. Gratitude guards the heart. • “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His kind deeds” (Psalm 103:2). 2. Humility stays intact. • “But remember that it is the LORD your God who gives you the power to gain wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18). 3. Ongoing obedience channels further blessing. • For Israel, forgetfulness led to disobedience and exile; remembrance secured covenant favor. 4. Witness shines brighter. • A thankful believer enjoying God’s gifts without idolizing them is a living testimony (Matthew 5:16). 5. Eternal perspective stays clear. • Riches are “uncertain” (1 Timothy 6:17); remembering God anchors hope beyond the market. 6. Generosity flows more freely. • “Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous” (1 Timothy 6:18-19). Practical Ways to Remember God in Prosperity • Bless before you enjoy: verbal thanks at meals, paydays, promotions. • Tithe first, spend after—concrete proof you know whose money it is (Malachi 3:10). • Keep a gratitude journal listing daily evidences of God’s provision. • Rehearse testimony: regularly tell others how God moved you from slavery (past) to plenty (present). • Serve the needy—prosperity shared keeps the heart soft (Proverbs 19:17). • Schedule periodic fasts; hunger reminds the soul who truly satisfies (Matthew 4:4). A Life That Honors the Giver Prosperity is a test as real as hardship. When abundance arrives, let every full table and finished mortgage turn into louder praise, deeper humility, and wider generosity—so plenty never steals the place that belongs only to the Lord. |
    |