It’s shameful when someone says, “You are poor because you do not have enough faith.” The Bible says when they make godliness a way to get rich, they have “corrupt minds” and “have turned their backs on the truth.” (1 Timothy 6:5-6) David did say, “I have been young and now I am old, yet I have not seen the righteous abandoned or his children begging for bread.” (Psalm 37:25) But there’s a big difference between “wealth” and “begging for bread.” How can you keep from missing out on all your loving Father has for you?

Put His Kingdom First

“God will supply all your needs” was the Apostle Paul’s promise to those supporting his missionary work. He went to plant a church elsewhere and they sent him money more than once. (See Philippians 4:15-16) We can’t claim that promise in every case. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” (Matthew 6:33). There’s a condition: God wants to come first in your life — every part it. Including finances, relationships and entertainment.

Watch How He Provides For Others

Another great provision promise is in 2 Corinthians 9. This also is for those who put His Kingdom first: “Now the One who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us. ” (2 Corinthians 9:10-11). In other words, they can watch how God provides for His work to see that He will provide for them as well.

Ask How Much Is Really Enough

Desire for riches is a snare. (1 Timothy 6:9-10) Following Jesus begins with embracing a cross. (Luke 9:23) “...the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head.” (Luke 9:58) Although Jesus had His physical needs met, He was poor (2 Corinthians 8:9) by this world’s standards. Here He told His followers that the things others think are “essential” are not part of any guarantee for the righteous. But we, through His poverty, become rich with “an eternal inheritance, held in reserve in heaven, that will never fade or fail.” (1 Peter 1:4)