Let’s address what I consider an unfortunately sad dilemma in the lives of many in the world these days. I’m talking about the pursuit of prosperity, power and pleasure.
Such sensual desires can quickly corrupt and draw us away from the most significant and important relationship available to humankind.
If we passionately pursue any of these three Ps, we are setting ourselves up for a great fall.
There’s nothing wrong with these three elusive Ps, but should our focus be to possess more and more of any of these tangible assets, we would be wise to consider the most valuable of the intangible assets available to all.
Before we attempt to dissect each of these, let’s turn to a well-known but often misquoted Bible verse, 1 Timothy 6:10:
“For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
The question we all must ask ourselves is simply “What do I love most?”
For those in the audience who place their trust in Almighty God, we need to ask “What have I possibly placed on my list before my love for my Lord?”
The answer to that question should be “Nothing!” After all, we owe our very existence to Him. He is our Creator and our Provider.
There is nothing wrong with prosperity. I’ve experienced prosperity in my life. It’s nice to not be needy, but prosperity does not necessarily bring about contentment.
Listen to these words written in Philippians 4:12-13 by the Apostle Paul (while imprisoned) to the church in Philippi:
“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”
When it comes to power, we need to understand where power truly lies.
The Lord of Hosts is all-powerful and He has the ability to snuff out anyone or anything that abuses the power He allows us to wield somewhat vicariously.
We have the power to live our lives as we see fit, but there are certain consequences for the freedom He gives His creation.
As followers of Christ, we need to consider His will for our lives and the lives of those He may place under our tutelage.
Our Lord wants us to experience pleasure. Pleasure does not need to be sensual. There’s a pleasure of the heart, mind and spirit that is not of this world.
King Solomon addresses pleasure in the Book of Proverbs again and again.
Proverbs 10:23: “A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom.”
Proverbs 18:2: “A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.”
Proverbs 21:17: “He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never become rich.”
So, as I see it there’s nothing wrong with prosperity, power and pleasure. We simply must recognize the One who gives us these blessings and the purpose of their presence in our lives.
Pursue God with all your heart, mind, spirit and strength and I’m certain He will not only be pleased with you, but He will truly bless you as you navigate the currents of life!