ENDURING WEALTH – A BIBLICAL GUIDE.
ENDURING WEALTH – A BIBLICAL GUIDE.
Proverbs 8 vs 18-21.
Welcome to Sunday, the *_23rd day of MARCH 2025._* This is THE YEAR OF OUR ULTIMATE TRIUMPH! Receive your *GOOD NEWS* as we continue our ultimate march *_from trials to triumph!_*
https://youtu.be/Aei-czWPMmc?si=3lXz_Szjt_O6bEF9
*Our Hymn: _“What a Friend We Have in Jesus”_* MHB. 538.
*Author and Composer*
- *Author:* Joseph M. Scriven (1819-1886)
- *Composer:* Charles C. Converse (1832-1918)
- *Tune:* “What a Friend”
*Short Story of the Hymn*
- Joseph Scriven wrote the hymn in 1855 to comfort his mother, who was living in Ireland while he was in Canada. The hymn speaks to the comfort and solace found in Jesus, emphasising the importance of bringing our burdens to Him. It has become a beloved hymn across many denominations, resonating with believers who seek enduring friendship and support in Christ.
*_“What a Friend We Have in Jesus”_*
- What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
O, what peace we often forfeit,
O, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer. - Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged—
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness—
Take it to the Lord in prayer. - Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Saviour, still our refuge—
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms, He’ll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.
https://youtu.be/Aei-czWPMmc?si=3lXz_Szjt_O6bEF9
*Sermon Theme: “ENDURING WEALTH – A BIBLICAL GUIDE”*
*Relevant Bible Passage:* Proverbs 8:18-21 (NKJV)
_“Riches and honour are with me, enduring riches and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold; yes, than fine gold, and my revenue is better than choice silver. I traverse the way of righteousness, amid the paths of justice, that I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasures.”_
*Sixteen-Prayer Raid – Preparation Prayers:*
1) *Topic: _Solution Agent._*
*Link:* Prayerfully and sincerely start your business/practice to solve a specific part of humanity’s numerous problems in your education or comparative advantage.
*Anchor Verse: Colossians 3:23 –* _“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”_
*Prayer: _Lord, turn me into a transformed problem-solver, an extension of God’s helping hand – and not a selfish advantage-taker – in restoring hope and purpose for my Community and nation, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
2) Topic: _Commitment to Purpose._*
*Link:* Pursue your calling with diligence and faith.
*Anchor Verse: Proverbs 16:3 –* _“Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established.”_
*Prayer: _Lord, help me to commit my work to You, establishing my thoughts and guiding me toward fulfilling my divine purpose, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
3) *Topic: _Transformation and Growth._*
*Link: * Seek continuous improvement in your life and character.
*Anchor Verse: Philippians 3:13-14 –* _“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead.”_
*Prayer: _LORD, grant me the strength to let go of my past and strive toward becoming my best self, growing in Your image, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
4) *Topic: _Sowing and Reaping._*
*Link:* Understand that your actions have consequences.
*Anchor Verse: Galatians 6:7 –* _“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”_
*Prayer: _My Father, My God! In Jesus Christ’s Name, help me to sow seeds of kindness and diligence, knowing that my actions today will shape my tomorrow._*
5) *Topic: _Vision and Purpose._*
*Link:* Cultivate a clear vision for your life.
*Anchor Verse: Proverbs 29:18 –* _“Where there is no vision, the people perish.”_
*Prayer: _The Excellency in Heaven, grant me a clear vision for my life and purpose, guiding me to focus on my divinely inspired passions and avoid distractions, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
6) *Topic:* _Faith and Works._*
*Link:* Faith must be accompanied by action.
*Anchor Verse: James 2:26 –* _“For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”_
*Prayer: _Invincible Authority, empower me to put my faith into action, that my works may reflect my belief in You, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
7) *Topic: _Actionable Knowledge._*
*Link:* Apply what you know for true success.
*Anchor Verse: Luke 6:46 –* _“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?”_
*Prayer: _O Holy Spirit of the Most High, inspire me to put into practice the wisdom I have gained in my walk with You, aligning my actions with Your teachings, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
*Exhortation:*
Beloved in Christ,
Our THEME: ENDURING WEALTH – A BIBLICAL GUIDE.
Our TEXT: Proverbs 8 vs 18-21. NKJV.
- *_Riches and honour are with me, Enduring riches and righteousness._*
- *_My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold, and my revenue is better than choice silver._*
- *_I traverse the way of righteousness amid the paths of justice,_*
- *_That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, That I may fill their treasuries._*
Our Hymn MHB. 538: *_“What a Friend We Have in Jesus”_*
*This year of Ultimate Triumph, your positive achievements will manifest; your unprecedented success will attract greatness to you; your God-instituted ministry will set your community free from pain; and your household will enjoy limitless peace. The Almighty God has announced your dominion, writing off your testy frustrations to His Glory in Jesus’ Name!_*
AMEN!
We shall begin with a Reflection on the MHB. Hymn 538:
Under our THEME: *ENDURING WEALTH – A BIBLICAL GUIDE*, the Hymn reflects on its focus: *The theme of Friendship and Support.* The hymn beautifully encapsulates the essence of enduring wealth through friendship with Jesus. It reassures believers that no burden is too heavy to bring to Him. This aligns perfectly with the theme of enduring wealth, highlighting that true riches lie in the support and love found in Christ.
While our THEME: *ENDURING WEALTH – A BIBLICAL GUIDE*, naturally extends to us a *Call to Prayer*, the Hymn’s repeated call to *_“take it to the Lord in prayer”_* reminds us that in times of distress—whether financial, emotional, or spiritual—we have a faithful friend in Jesus who invites us to share our burdens. This is a key aspect of enduring wealth; it is not solely about financial prosperity but also about the peace and comfort we receive through our relationship with Him. Today’s message underscores God’s willingness to make us wealthy (3 John 2). It is His thought towards us to make us flourish, *_and possess wealth if it is a part of our desires_* (Jeremiah 29:11), and *_God is the one that empowers us to make wealth (Deut. 8:18). Hence, by His will, I present my *Wealth Guide Nugget* to guide us in this solemn discourse:
Nugget #1:
Initiate your own practice/business to solve humankind’s preferred problems, knowing that you are not the selling point: God and your productivity glorify your efforts!
Colossians 3:23 – says, *_“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”_*
A woman started a community garden not just for profit but to nourish her neighbourhood. Initially, she faced challenges, but her unwavering commitment to serve transformed the garden into a flourishing community spirit and sustainability hub. This illustrates that selfless efforts yield abundant rewards. In most cases, you may have to start your own enterprise to be wealthy and not be scrutinised over what you do with the proceeds of your sweat. But you must ensure that you never decide to quit as you face challenges! Winners do not quit, and quitters never win.
Nugget #2:
The Price of Success is paid in small decisions.
Proverbs 16:3 assures us, *_”Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established.”_*
When we were much younger, Rev. Múyìwá loved preaching that we add work to our faith. When I was a National Youth Service Corps Member, the preacher was a young teacher who habitually set aside a tiny percentage of his earnings for reinvestment. Over time, these small, consistent decisions led him to build a successful business, proving that every considerable success starts with small, intentional actions.
Nugget #3:
I rephrase Ernest Hemingway’s words: There is no nobility in believing you are better than someone else: True nobility is ‘becoming superior to your old self.’ Improve on your best self!
*Philippians 3:13-14 – _“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead.”_
A former athlete who faced an injury shifted his focus from competing to coaching. Instead of comparing himself to his peers, he dedicated himself to uplifting young talent, ultimately becoming a beloved mentor who transformed the lives of many. I never joked about learning a new skill. To offer a hand to assist others, I became a trained Master of Contemporary Arts, a Writer, a Copywriter, an Editor, and a Pastoral Counsellor… amid other skills I borrowed. Being in a Profession does not preclude anyone from developing his or herself, just as your busy schedule should never be your prison from fulfilment!
Nugget #4:
Your habits predict your future more than your hopes or aspirations.
Galatians 6:7 – warns you and me, *_“Do not be deceived; God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”_*
This anecdote suffices: A writer committed to writing just 100 words daily. Over time, those small daily habits culminated in a completed novel, illustrating how consistent actions lead to significant results. A small-time kleptomaniac becomes a hardened criminal tomorrow: *_Watch your habits…_*
Nugget #5:
People who lack purpose will distract themselves with pleasures and comparisons.
Proverbs 29:18 – inspires us that *_“Where there is no vision, the people perish.”_*
An individual once spent years chasing trends and temporary pleasures but felt unfulfilled. Upon discovering his passion for painting, he redirected his focus, and his artwork brought him not just joy but a sense of true purpose. The major thing is *_Your Focus!_*
Nugget #6:
Like receiving the divine anointing to excel, achieving success in all walks of life never comes easy: It takes profound faith, prayer, and hard work.
*James 2:26* says – *_“For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”_*
A missionary cousin – a Methodist Tent-making Minister – faced numerous hardships while establishing a school in an underprivileged area. Through relentless prayer, faith, and hard work, he transformed lives and communities, demonstrating that success often comes through perseverance.
Nugget #7:
The gap between knowing and doing holds the universe’s wealth.
Luke 6:46 – *_“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?”_*
This happens to so many of us today. A successful businessman learned theories of wealth but struggled until he put them into practice. He built a thriving company by taking actionable steps based on his plethora of knowledge, illustrating the power of aligning knowledge with action.
Nugget #8:
Always plan for your future: Today’s sunshine shines till tomorrow’s rain. Be kind, noting that some wealthy people on record lost everything they had unexpectedly.
*Luke 14:28 – _“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?”_*
Many of us started as wealthy entrepreneurs and enjoyed success but neglected to save for a rainy day. When an economic downturn hit, we faced hardship. Some of us did not get a second chance. The experience teaches us the value of planning, leading us to advocate for financial literacy.
Nugget #9:
Take care of people, knowing that human beings are on the same plane: Touch human hearts, and you will open God’s Treasure Stores and be genuinely wealthy!
*Matthew 25:40 – _“And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, since you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.'”_*
A community service volunteer shared groceries with needy people. The connections he made and the lives he touched enriched others and filled his heart with joy—a true reflection of wealth.
Nugget #10:
In whatever currency, your first million shows you who you are. Your second million shows you who people are!
*Proverbs 10:22 – _“The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.”_*
A business owner who achieved his first million remained humble and generous. However, upon reaching his second million, he faced envy from old friends. With discernment, he surrounded himself with like-minded individuals who uplifted him, showcasing the importance of choosing companions wisely.
Nugget #11:
Having everything you dreamt of does not make you happy. Happiness is the pursuit of your dreams, purpose, vision, and mission without comparing yourself with any mortal.
*Ecclesiastes 2:11 – _“Then I looked at all the works that my hands had done and the labour in which I had toiled, and indeed, all was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun.”_*
A successful executive realised that despite his wealth, he felt empty. He pursued his passion for wildlife conservation, finding deeper fulfilment in serving a cause rather than merely accumulating material wealth. Your take might be to donate to a charity or household of faith. It is all grist to the mill.
Nugget #12:
Making a lot of money is more straightforward than maintaining wealth: Love God, work hard, and never give up on achieving more!
*Proverbs 21:5* is deep and instructive – *_“The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, But everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.”_*
An entrepreneur who quickly gained wealth through a trending product lost it all due to poor management. After learning from his mistakes, he restructured his approach and committed to long-term diligence, ultimately restoring and expanding his wealth.
Nugget #13:
The view from the lofty mountain-top is beautiful because you spent quality time, treasure, and effort climbing the height.
This is instructive and inspiring: *Psalm 121:1-2 – *_“I will lift my eyes to the hills—from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.”_*
A climber spent years training to ascend a challenging peak. Upon reaching the summit, he reflected on the lessons learned and the beauty unveiled through the journey, appreciating that the challenges led to the stunning view.
Nugget #14:
Enduring wealth starts in the spiritual: If you believe in God, you are assured of success *if you follow God’s plan, purpose, mission, and dream for you.*
Joshua 1:8 – *_“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”_*
Most humble believers are committed to prayer, hard work, and following God’s guidance instead of freeing themselves from God’s worship or consciousness and struggling alone in the world’s unfair weather without God. Though they faced hurdles, history reveals that —– individually— their faith aids them to succeed beyond their dreams, proving that spiritual alignment brings true and lasting wealth above brawn. Avoid the loud elitist voice of the half-believers. They sound logical or accurate but will lead the simple to failure and death: Derailment from the scriptures will not be our portion, in Jesus’ Name!
Let us apply our Exhortation to various audiences:
*To the Atheistic Individual*
The hymn and the sermon can resonate even with those who may not share the faith. The universal themes of seeking solace and support in difficult times can be an entry point for exploring the more profound questions of purpose and existence.
In most cases, when one doubts the existence of the supreme deity, they do not doubt logical reasoning. Most atheists believe attaining wealth needs no spiritual connotation but diligence, discipline, resourcefulness, and hard work. Yet, I encourage them to consider that in the pursuit of wealth and happiness, true fulfilment comes from relationships—both with others and, ultimately, with the divine being who ensures that each human being has a God-shaped vacuum that only God can fill.
*Operators of Firms/Businesses under Economic Distress*
The assurance found in the hymn can encourage business owners to pray to God during tough times. However, when we face business difficulties, we must calm our nerves to have a rethink. At these times of economic distress, we must accept that enduring wealth is built on integrity and ethical practices, much like the friendship with Jesus that sustains through challenges.
Then, business owners can find strength in knowing that they are not alone in their struggles and that seeking divine guidance can lead to better decisions. Let us prayerfully care for our communities and customers first —in the love of God—and the worst will soon be over.
*Anguished Believers*
For believers feeling weighed down by life’s troubles, the hymn serves as a reminder that Jesus understands our pain and offers comfort. Are you caught in this web of failed expectations? I have been there, and overcoming this underscores the importance of bringing your worries to Jesus. Coming to the author and finisher of our faith reinforces the idea that all believers are valued in their relationship with God. Our material circumstances will bow when we are intimate with the lover of our soul.
You must encourage yourself to pray, reflecting on the lyrics as a source of strength and reassurance.
*The World’s Religious Teachers*
Fellow religious leaders, we can draw from the hymn’s message to teach our congregations about the importance of prayer and reliance on God. True wealth involves spiritual growth and nurturing relationships with others as a reflection of Christ’s love.
Let us be vigilant against the allure of prosperity teachings that may distract from the core message of being considerate of others, having drive, diligence, and determination to achieve our goals, having faith in God, and offering sacrificial service to God and humanity.
*Government of Nations*
Leaders can be reminded of their responsibility to serve the people with sacrificial love, integrity and compassion. The hymn speaks to the need for solace and support, which can be echoed in policies prioritising citizens’ welfare.
The body of God’s worshippers across religious divides must act to encourage leaders to seek wisdom and guidance from God in their decisions, aligning governance with principles of righteousness and justice.
In closing, remember that enduring wealth is a gift from God, rooted in righteousness and justice. It is not attained by personal ingenuity, power, might, or ability without godliness. We can seek enduring wealth through prayer, ethical living, forthrightly heeding spiritual directives, and our commitment to serving others.
Genuine prosperity is found in the love and support of Jesus, who invites us to bring our burdens to Him and find solace in His presence. Pursuing wealth through corruption, deceit, or cheating is a sure way to lasting regrets and the infant of days!
Our Father, our God, please help us pursue enduring wealth that glorifies You and blesses others, in Jesus’ Name. AMEN.
Now, Let us embark on our Consolidation Prayers:
8) *Topic: _National Prosperity._*
*Link:* Seek God’s guidance for the nation’s welfare.
*Anchor Verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14 –* _“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray… then I will heal their land.”_
*Prayer: _God of all the Earth, heal our nation and guide our leaders to act with integrity and compassion for the benefit of all citizens, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
9) *Topic: _Business Integrity._*
*Link:* Foster ethical practices in business.
Anchor Verse: Proverbs 10:9 – _“He who walks with integrity walks securely.”
*Prayer: _Heavenly Papa, instil a spirit of integrity within our businesses so that they may reflect Your character and thrive in righteousness, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
10) *Topic: _Community Engagement._*
*Link:* Transform the community through service.
*Anchor Verse: Matthew 5:16 –* _“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”_
*Prayer: _Lord, empower us to serve our community with love and purpose, shining Your light in every interaction, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
11) *Topic: *_Family Provision._*
*Link:* Trust in God for your family’s needs.
*Anchor Verse: Philippians 4:19 –* _“And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
*Prayer: _Lord, provide for every family in our congregation, ensuring their needs are met and their hearts are filled with Your peace, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
12) *Topic: _Healing Relationships._*
*Link:* Foster forgiveness and reconciliation.
*Anchor Verse: Colossians 3:13 –* _“Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”
*Prayer: _Lord, heal the rifts in our relationships, teaching us to forgive as You have forgiven us, and restore our bonds in love, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
13) *Topic: _Leadership Empowerment._*
*Link:* Equip leaders with wisdom and discernment.
*Anchor Verse: James 1:5 –* _“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”_
*Prayer: _Lord, grant wisdom and discernment to our leaders, guiding them to make decisions that honour You and uplift our communities, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
14) *Topic: _Hope for the Hopeless._*
*Link:* Bring comfort to those in despair.
*Anchor Verse: Romans 15:13 –* _“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”_
*Prayer: _Lord, bring hope to those who feel lost and hopeless, reminding them of Your love and the promise of a brighter future, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
15) *Topic: _Courage in Trials._*
*Link:* Strengthen those facing adversity.
*Anchor Verse: Isaiah 41:10 -* _“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you.”_
*Prayer: _The LORD, Our Protection, grant us the courage to face our challenges, knowing You are with us, providing strength and support in every trial, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
16) *Topic: _Legacy of Faith._*
*Link:* Inspire the next generation to follow Christ.
*Anchor Verse: Psalm 78:4 –* _“We will not hide them from their children, telling the generation to come, the praises of the Lord.”_
*Prayer: _Lord, help us to pass down a legacy of faith to the next generation, instilling in them the love and knowledge of Christ, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*
*Conclusion*
As we reflect on *_“ENDURING WEALTH – A BIBLICAL GUIDE”_*, remember that true wealth goes beyond material possessions. It encompasses integrity, purpose, service, and the love we extend to others. By aligning our lives with God’s principles, we can build a legacy of faith and enduring wealth that blesses not just ourselves but our families, communities, and nations.
*_I now command every sickness – including emotional, financial or spiritual barrenness – and failure in your life, home, and ministry to be cast into the desolate places, NOW, in Jesus’ Name._*
*_Amen._*
* * *
*_At Christ Jesus’ inspired word, the great help of God will cause you to flourish, annihilating your fears and destroying the traps set for you at these dangerous times, in Jesus’ mighty Name. ONLY BELIEVE!_* 
GLORY BE TO GOD!
*_Alleluia!_*
As God’s Anointed, I humbly prophesy, according to the Word of God, the evil declarations against your life are NOW divinely annulled and defeated, in Jesus’ mighty Name.
*_Every plan of the Kingdom of darkness against your soul has perished – forever, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*
*_As for me and my household – including these prayer partners reading, hearing and praying along – we shall serve the living God in sound health, good wealth and prosperity of our souls, in Jesus’ Name!_*
*_I love you, in Jesus’ Name!_*
*Amen. God Bless You!*
*Enter To Worship… Depart To Serve!*
Feel free to check us out on the secured web:
https://www.evangelion-tm.com/
*Bless Someone Today: It’s Your Happy Sunday!* I seize this opportunity to bless those notable persons whose birthdays or special anniversaries are today. May you continue to receive power to excel, unmerited favour, love and grace to overcome evil, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.
HAVE A GLORIOUS MONTH OF MARCH, IN JESUS’ NAME. 
Text: Act 12:11. 
