Parenting by Design - December 21

The Power to Get Rich

Deut. 8:18: But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth (NIV).

Isn't it remarkable how we honor and glorify the rich and famous as if they have the ability to produce their wealth or fame on their own? Those who have "it" write books about their exploits and offer to teach others how to emulate them and be wealthy, too. They fail to see that it is God who made their wealth possible. Humility is not a characteristic often displayed in these people.

Before we judge these people, however, we must look at our own hearts. We are easily impressed with our abilities and we love to talk about the things we have accomplished so our family can bask in our reflected "glory". Unfortunately, we often fail to use the wealth we accumulate to honor the God who made it possible in the first place. Moses cautions us to "remember the Lord ... who gives the ability to produce wealth". God doesn't give us this ability to bring honor to ourselves.

Demonstrate to your kids that you recognize the source of your abilities, whatever they are. And, show them how you use your abilities to honor God.