God's Promise to the Lonely
There's confusion in the modern western church as to what we "get" when we come to Jesus. Contrary to many popular sermons and best-selling books, we are not promised earthly success and prosperity. That we would look for such things is evidence of our misunderstanding of the Gospel, God's purpose for us, and of what makes for our eternal well-being and happiness. Earthly success and prosperity: money flowing, accolades from "important people," and a position, whether in the religious or secular area, of respect. We should fear such things. It's not that they are wrong - indeed, some saints are called to walk in positions of wealth and affluence. However, such callings will come with a price, and the temptations that accompany them are enough to snare hearts as noble as King David and the Apostle Peter (see Galatians 2:11-14). Besides, such attainments are often a mark that we have more closely sided with the world than the Kingdom of Chri