The word for this week is "prosper". We have two verses in the Old Testament and one in the New Testament to look at. First we'll look at Psalm 1:3:
3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he does shall prosper. KJV
This is the Hebrew word "tsalach". Strong's Concordance says: to push forward. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds: to advance; to make progress; to succeed; to be profitable. They way to have this success and prosperity manifest in our lives is found in the first 2 verses:
1 Blessed is the man that walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law does he meditate day and night. KJV
6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. KJV
This is the Hebrew word "shalah". Strong's Concordance says: to be tranquil, secure or successful. Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon adds: to be at rest; to be at ease. This is similar to the word above, but shows another aspect of "prosperity"! This one is the result of being obedient to love Jerusalem and to pray for peace for her. The New Testament verse, and there is only one, is found in 3 John 2:
2 Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. KJV
This is the Greek word "euodoo". Strong's Concordance says: to help on the road; to succeed in business affairs. Thayer's Greek Lexicon adds: to grant a prosperous and expeditious journey; to lead by a direct and easy way. The Theological Dictionary of New Testament words says this in addition: carries the thought that all health and success, both material and spiritual, depend on God, and that we may have confidence in him. THIS prosperity comes as a result of "prospering" our souls (mind, emotions and will). We do THAT by renewing our minds to think like God, in obedience to Romans 12:2:
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. KJV
I REALLY like the Amplified Bible for this one:
2 Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]. AMP
There is no question that God desires for us to prosper, because He has given us instructions and opportunities to do so. This is MOST important with the things that are happening in our nation, and all over the world right now. There is never real security in the way the world handles situations, circumstances and events, so WE must rely on doing the Will of God so that we can continue to have HIS richest and best happening in our lives, in spite of what the world says! The very fact that you and Kristine were not affected by the recent downsizing is a testament to your hard work, commitment to excellence and value to your company, but it is also a testament to your continued favor and anointing because of the God you love and serve! HIS favor is all over your lives! We are blessed to be a part of it! Here is Hillsong Kids with "Better Than Life":
Love and Shalom from the Swoveys!
