 |
| Psalm
122.6 (NIV) May those who love you be secure. |
 |
| Being in God’s will is the only safe place to be.* |
 |
Within
its context, this verse is part of a prayer for peace for Jerusalem, and could
be regarded either as a promise or a prayer. Out of context or not, and whether
it is a prayer or a promise, it can speak to us.
Some
versions of the verse render it as a request for prosperity for those who love
God. Prosperity and security might seem to go hand-in-hand but earthly
prosperity comes and goes. Jobs, banks, investments – these all let us down. Where
is our security then?
One
Bible scholar says that the word “prosper” doesn’t really convey the original
meaning of this verse either. The “essential idea” of the Hebrew word, he says,
is that of “quietness or rest.”* I prefer
that interpretation because too many people misunderstand God’s promises regarding
prosperity. While material wealth is often enjoyed by Christians, we are not
promised that kind of prosperity or security.
When
we rest securely in the Lord, our sinful desires are subdued; our craving for
truth is increased; our strength is renewed; we enjoy communion with God; and we
are fruitful in good works.* That kind of security is certainly superior to
worldly prosperity!
|
 |
| Health and wealth gospel dishonors Christ, since any gospel that is more true in America than China is not the true gospel.* |
No comments:
Post a Comment