I must admit that when I hear the word prosper, the first thing that I think of is an abundance of money. But there are many things that are involved in us living a prosperous life as the definition of the word show us.

Webster defined prosperity as: Prosperity is the state of flourishing, thriving, good fortune and/or successful social status.

Prosperity often encompasses wealth but also includes other factors which can be independent of wealth to varying degrees, such as happiness and health.

I can have all of the money in the world but if I am sick, I am not living a prosperous life. I can have perfect health and not be happy and I am not prospering. I can possess money and good health, but if I am a social misfit, not getting along with other people, I would not be prosperous.

Therefore the first part of the definition of prosperity is all inclusive. We must be in a state of flourishing, thriving, good fortune, and social status to have prosperity. Wealth, happiness, and health are a result of prosperity, not the cause of it. I must then learn to control the state I am in and positive results will follow.

Why do we think that money is the answer to everything? If it is all about the state I’m in, then how do I control my state of being? How can I flourish, thieve, have good fortune, and right relationships? Are all of these things in my power to do or not to do? Could prosperity be a result of our choices?

These and other life questions will be addressed Sunday morning as “The Gathering Place Family” meets at 240 Courthouse Parkway for Life Groups at 9:30 and in the lobby at 10:00 a.m. for our Pre-Service Connection where we enjoy coffee, juice and donuts. Our Worship Service and Children’s Church then begins at 10:30. Come at 7:00 p.m. and be part of our Wednesday night Bible Study and Children’s Ministry.