January 5, 2016 @ 6:30 AM

Jesus taught us to judge righteously, not by appearance (John 7:24). Things are often different from what they appear to be. For instance, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary appears to be the greatest tragedy of all time, but it is really the greatest thing that ever happened for the fallen human race.

An age-old question is: "Why do the wicked prosper?" Even the ancient Prophet Jeremiah posed this question to God. Recently, It dawned on me that we should not overlook the connection between the wicked and prosperity when posing this age-old question. Could it be that prosperity is not a blessing, but a positive curse in the lives of the wicked? Instead of the wicked prospering in spite of their wickedness, is their prosperity an explanation for their wickedness, since it is seen by them as proof of God's approval, as well as a pinch-hitter for God in their lives?

No one is more unlikely to believe themselves under God's condemnation for their sin or in need of God's salvation than the prosperous. This may explain Donald Trump's recent comment that despite the fact he believes in God he has never sought God's forgiveness. Trump may feel his fortune is a sign of God's favor and proof that he stands in no need of God's forgiveness. No wonder Jesus taught that it was "easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God" (Matthew 19:24).

Don't forget that money is the one thing our Lord raised as a direct rival to God in a person's life (Matthew 6:24). People with the most cash are liable to feel the least need for Christ. Whereas others are constantly kept on their knees by want, the wealthy may feel no need to ever kneel at all. Have you ever thanked God for your lack of fortune and fame? Perhaps, you ought to do so, since it puts you in a privileged spiritual position.