Gregor, I am ever the contrarian. I am going to disagree with your post 12/5 @5:14pm.Specifically, <<It sure is hard for Christians to live a victorious life without financial blessings.>>
I believe the Bible states the following:
1Ti 6:17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
1 Tim 6:2...
These things teach and exhort.
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into [this] world, [and it is] certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and [into] many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousnes righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. How do you rationalize the victorious lives that POOR(need I say starving?) Christians are living in most parts of the world? How has God failed to bless the righteous ones living and suffering under the Muslim persecution(over 100,000 dead in Timor at last count)???
IMO the lusts of other things has choked fruit from the branch that grows in much of the western world. I know many miserable Christians that wonder why they are the way they are. Yet, they(and. sadly, I) continue to fall into the snare of worldly posessions.
Financial freedom? Here it is:
Ps 62:10 Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart [upon them].
And that's a BIG word....if!
Hopefully, one day I can win the struggle... |
