For years, the churches I attended promoted the idea that to stay close to God, we must live in modesty—that if we had too much money, we would no longer need God. How sad! This message implied that we should live in constant need, trusting God for our next mortgage payment, stretching to afford healthy food, rarely enjoying meaningful vacations, or investing in quality education. This is a complete lie from the enemy—the “father of lies” (John 8:44, NIV).
One example comes from a family member who loved the Lord with all his heart. However, in his early Christian walk, he was taught that poverty was equal to piety. He wanted nothing more than to please God. So when his children needed clothes, he went to the Goodwill store to buy second hand items. When his son needed a suit for church, he purchased one from the thrift store—often outdated, with lapels that went against current styles. Instead of reflecting God’s abundance, the clothing became a symbol of lack. But how does that align with God’s Word? We are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13–14, ESV), not dim and depleted.
This mindset can be spiritually damaging. Over time, we start to remind God of all we’ve sacrificed to be close to Him, wondering why trials still come. That thinking breeds self-righteousness and judgment. These attitudes create bitterness and negativity, making such believers hard to be around. Instead of setting the captives free (Luke 4:18, NKJV), they remain in bondage themselves. They do not reflect the victorious life we are promised through Jesus Christ.
We are not called to barely get by—we are called to overcome. Scripture tells us, “Beloved, I pray that in every way you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 1:2, CSB). Jesus said He came so we could have life—and life more abundantly (John 10:10, NKJV). Our righteousness is not earned through lack, but received through the finished work of Christ (Romans 5:17, NIV).
We must stop serving a second-hand version of God. He is not the God of barely enough—He is Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides (Genesis 22:14, AMP). Let us embrace the promises of the blood covenant, live victoriously, and reflect a life so full of peace, wisdom, and provision that others are drawn to ask, “What’s your secret?” And we will boldly point them to Jesus.
