The Health, Wealth, & Prosperity Movement (HW&P from now on) presents a salvation that makes all who follow, into human beings that do not live in this real world. We are exempt from it troubles and disappointments and pain. We live “above” the real world in every aspect!
Please note that I said “every!” When we place our trust in Christ we do become a different human being, we have a new nature produced in us through the Holy Spirit, and a new access to unlimited power by the means of prayer, and, if willing to invest the time, we can have a new insight to see the invisible works that only the Holy Spirit can enable us to see. The ability to see beyond the surface reality and see the authentic reality that is behind the scenes - that can develop great wisdom and a discernment that others do not have. So as we navigate this world, as children of God we have the advantage of guidance that others do not. However, not only do we NOT escape the pain, troubles and sufferings of this world, but because we have a personal God working in our lives, we also have a personal enemy who hates God and anything He loves!
This is why the HW&P mindset is so dangerous. Individuals that enter into relationship with God with this false expectation are taught this now means they will have no money problems, no health problems, no troubles in their career, or family, or even the possessions they have. These false and wrong expectations will set a brand-new child of God on a path that leads to a great fall!
Our expectations should center on our hope in Christ! Who He is and what His plan and desire is for us. His followers engulf all races, lifestyles, economic levels and social stature. Each individual life will encounter specific qualities to their life deemed best by Him to make us into the person He knows we can be. That may include riches, poverty, health, sickness, fame, or being invisible to most in this world. Nowhere does a thought enter into that picture of an escape from a fallen world and its dilemmas.
What is clearly offered is the secret to this temporal life that most miss. Paul shares it with us:
Philippians: 4:11-13 (Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Where ever a person is in life, rich, poor, healthy or sick, etc. if that person possesses contentment, the peace that everyone is searching for is theirs! Life is chaotic, it always will be, God offers a life that experiences calm and a “settled” heart no matter the circumstances. HW&P preaches expectations that do not exist in a fallen world!
The So What!
Do you expect things from God? When you pray, is it based on Intimidation and Ego, or is it based on Humility and Confidence that God will give you what He knows is best? Consider Christ when He asked His Father to not make Him drink the cup that was placed before Him.
