God’s Definition of Prosperity

Daily Devotional – Monday, September 6, 2021

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.

3 John 1:2 (NKJV)

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” This definition implies that we need to find the right balance in life.  

Unbelievable as it may sound, sincere Christians can also lead imbalanced lives. It is good to spend time with God and in church. However, if we neglect our physical health, families, social lives and careers, we will be unhappy.

The Bible addresses this issue in the one-chapter letter of Third John. “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” (3 John 1:2). As the final phrase reveals, God is interested in our spiritual wellbeing.

However, the Almighty also wants us to ‘be in health’. You are of greater service to God when you are mentally, socially and physically sound. Note also that it is in God’s interest “that you may prosper in all things.”

God wants you to excel in your studies and career. He wants you to prosper in your job and business. Jesus is happy when your relationships (including marriage) thrive. The Lord is delighted when your children excel in school.

In other words, “the joy of the LORD is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10).

Which aspects of your life do you feel you have neglected? What steps will you take today to strike the right balance that you may prosper in all things?

Lord Jesus, help me to prosper in all things and be in health, just as I prosper spiritually.