Faithful Steward Ministries and FSM Women's Outreach

ABUNDANT LIVING

The whole secret of abundant living can be summed up in this sentence: “Not your responsibility but your response to God’s ability.”

—Carl F.H. Henry (1913-2003), American evangelical theologian

Bible Truth Behind the Quote:

Paul, who knew he was weak in himself, said, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

God’s power is “made perfect” in human weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Ron Rhodes, 1001 Unforgettable Quotes about God, Faith, & the Bible (Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 2011).

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Today’s quote and theme are directed at abundance in a believer’s life. Biblically, can and should a true believer have an abundant life—YES! However, biblically, true believers can not have an abundant life of earthly riches (material things) just because they believe. Are there wealthy (material) Christians, of course, but God is under no obligation to make your personal wealth ($$$$) grow just because you pray for it.

Recently, I have been interacting with ministries from parts of Africa and the Middle East, who seem to have a theology built around the Name it and Claim it popularized by Walter Hagan, Kenneth Copland, and others. This brand of false belief is built around taking the Bible out of context. Verses such as Psalm 37:4 (KJV) Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. People, take the second half of this verse and build an entire bad theology around it. What is missing in their theology is the Lord. Read the first part of the verse; Delight (take pleasure in) thyself (we are directed to) also in the Lord (the only true source of delight or abundance). This verse is not a promise for us to claim but a directive on how to live. If our daily lives Delight…in the Lord, our focus is on Spiritual wealth, not material.

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STUDIES

False Teachings

Is “name it claim it” teaching biblical? | GotQuestions.org

Reformed Reflections; Kenneth Copeland’s “Name It, Claim It” Heresy

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Proper Theology

What did Jesus mean when He promised an abundant life?

Abundant Life, John 10:10; Grace to You Ministries

My Abandoned Life for Your Abundant Life, John Piper