“The idealization of poverty is one of the most dangerous illusions of Christians in the contemporary world. Stewardship—which requires possessions and includes giving—is the true spiritual discipline in relationship to wealth.” Dallas Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines, p 194

Stewardship necessarily means that we must have material goods to manage for the Lord. Jesus taught that some receive more to manage than others. However, it all belongs to God. We manage for His Glory and according to His will.

The wise man of the Book of Proverbs recognized that the Gospel of Poverty and the Health and Wealth Gospel were not Gospel at all. Gospel means Good News. “Give me neither undue poverty nor undue wealth- but rather, feed my soul with the measure of prosperity that pleases you.” Proverbs 30:8b PT

We choose to live a simpler life rather than a more affluent life. Even so we are affluent in our simplicity. By choosing generosity, we choose simplicity. By choosing generosity the windows of Heaven are opened up in our lives. Because of generosity we are blessed and God protects us. (Read Malachi 3.) Therefore we can enjoy God’s blessings with thanksgiving.

Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.” (1 Timothy 6:6-10; 17–19, NLT)

Peace!