Topical Bible: Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Elated by Prosperity

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◄ Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Elated by Prosperity ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The unrenewed heart, in its natural state, often finds itself elated by prosperity. This elation is characterized by a sense of self-sufficiency, pride, and a tendency to forget God, who is the ultimate source of all blessings. The Scriptures provide numerous insights into this condition, warning against the spiritual dangers that accompany an unguarded response to material success.

Biblical Examples and Warnings

One of the most poignant examples of the unrenewed heart's response to prosperity is found in the life of King Nebuchadnezzar. In the book of Daniel, Nebuchadnezzar's heart was lifted up with pride due to his great achievements and wealth. He declared, "Is this not Babylon the Great, which I myself have built by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?" (Daniel 4:30). This self-exaltation led to his downfall, as God humbled him until he recognized the sovereignty of the Most High.

Similarly, the Israelites were cautioned against forgetting God in times of abundance. In Deuteronomy 8:11-14, Moses warned them, "Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God... Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down... then your heart will become proud, and you will forget the LORD your God" . This passage highlights the tendency of the unrenewed heart to become self-reliant and dismissive of God's providence when surrounded by prosperity.

The Nature of Elation in Prosperity

The elation experienced by the unrenewed heart in times of prosperity is often rooted in a false sense of security and self-importance. Proverbs 18:11 states, "The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it an unscalable wall" . This imagery illustrates how material wealth can create an illusion of invulnerability, leading individuals to place their trust in temporal riches rather than in God.

Moreover, the unrenewed heart's elation can manifest in a lack of empathy and disregard for others. In the parable of the rich fool, Jesus describes a man who, upon experiencing a bountiful harvest, decides to store up his goods for himself, saying, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and be merry!" (Luke 12:19). This self-centered attitude neglects the needs of others and ignores the transient nature of earthly wealth.

Consequences of an Elated Heart

The Scriptures consistently warn that the elation of the unrenewed heart in prosperity can lead to spiritual peril. In 1 Timothy 6:9-10, Paul cautions, "Those who want to be rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" . This passage underscores the potential for prosperity to become a snare, diverting the heart from its true purpose and leading to moral and spiritual decay.

Furthermore, the elation of the unrenewed heart often results in a false sense of independence from God. In Revelation 3:17, the church in Laodicea is rebuked for its complacency, saying, "You say, 'I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing,' but you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked" . This self-deception blinds individuals to their spiritual poverty and need for divine grace.

Conclusion

The character of the unrenewed heart, when elated by prosperity, reveals a profound spiritual vulnerability. The Bible provides ample evidence of the dangers associated with this condition, urging believers to remain vigilant and grounded in their faith, regardless of their material circumstances.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 26:16
But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Daniel 5:20
But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:
Torrey's Topical Textbook