I am often reminded that there are blessings far beyond material wealth in our country. The American blessings of freedom and work lay the groundwork for our ability to achieve and excel financially in our country.
I would argue that financial blessings are not necessarily foundational blessings. In our culture that is very oriented toward accumulation, we tend to see financial blessing as a foundational sign of God’s approval or care. I believe that focusing on money or wealth as indicative of God’s blessing can be very dangerous, because it takes our eyes off of Him and causes us to look instead at what He gives.
Often, God’s blessings are hidden in the challenges we face. We can all think of times that were particularly difficult in our lives and then can easily recount the way that God blessed us through a depth of relationship with Him during those times. Also, God’s blessings are reflective of His character – His love, His grace, His mercy, and His guidance. Sometimes those character traits are evidenced when He blesses us materially, but usually those traits are evidenced in our lives through relationships, His Word, and even the slow challenge of life’s unfolding processes.
So, I would encourage you to thank God for His financial blessing, but to ask Him to help you value the blessing of a growing relationship with Him beyond the blessing of growing financial provision. As the Psalmist said, “I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your doings; I muse on the work of Your hands.” Psalm 143:5 (NAS)
