I’ve discovered a pattern that what is actually true is hiding behind what is generally accepted to be true. Then, whatever that is is attributed to the Almighty, thereby deceiving people.

Deceit does not always come from overtly propagated lies, often it’s just half truths that omit what is inspired and life-changing. The Almighty invites us to a feast in Proverbs chapter 8. But, religious distortions turn His bounty into Luke-warm gruel – suggesting we better be happy about it. Or else!

Job’s story reflects the bountifulness of God. Job was the richest man in the known world- in property, animals, and children. He occupied a place of honor in the community because of his wisdom and material good he was able to achieve.

When I say: material good he was able to achieve, I refer to the story about a neighbor in need- knocking on a householder’s door. Jesus warns, don’t just say ‘be warmed and filled’ and send him away. Well-wishing is vanity. You need to give him actual provisions that he requires to be made whole in his circumstances.

So, wealth is necessary for building the kingdom at least according to the Book of Job and Jesus. Otherwise, the church is saying, “Be warmed and filled!” But, failing to provide the needs of humanity in any material way.

The Bible does say that the love of money, and pursuit of that purpose instead of God’s purposes is the root of all evil. Greed = empire building = slavery and oppression. That is true.

But, Job didn’t manifest any of those ills. Instead of greed, he was generous. Instead of empire building for his own glory, he served his community with distinction. He became great the way Jesus commands: Let him who would be great among you, be servant of all.

One train of thought that is catchy – Jesus commanding a rich man to give all his wealth to the poor and to follow Him- remains as a half-story I warned of earlier. Jesus says, when we give, we receive again good measure- pressed down and running over. When we give to support His work, he opens the window of heaven and bestows blessings. There is reciprocity in the kingdom. Sacrifice produces fruit that is desirable.

I believe Jesus said the rich man should give his wealth to the poor as a test to see whether he truly valued God or money most. It’s impossible to serve both. Wealth can be like a fortress that keeps poverty and suffering out. That is desirable. But, a fortress can keep people trapped inside, too. So, people trust in money, instead of God. They die and miss out on eternal life that God plans.

Job’s story demonstrates God’s blessing isn’t for Job’s own pleasure and glory. But, to establish God’s kingdom on earth for the good of all. The perception that wealth is something Jesus universally condemns is a religious tradition that does not accurately reflect the Almighty One’s blessing. If God disapproves of wealth, why did He give Job double of all the property that he lost?

Jesus says: Pray “God your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Nobody eating gruel in heaven! Nobody hungry there! Or deprived, oppressed.