Cheaters Never Prosper

Do you expect me to overlook obscene wealth
you've piled up by cheating and fraud?
Do you think I'll tolerate shady deals
and shifty scheming? . . . .
You'll pay for your sins down to your last cent.
Micah 6:10-13 (The Message)

I get so tired of hearing people proclaim that God treasures the poor more than the wealthy and how having more than enough money to provide for your needs is bad somehow. Hello! Are you reading the same Bible that I'm reading? The Bible has approximately 1600 references to money and over 500 verses contain specifically the words "money," "wealth," or "riches." So, let's be clear: Money is NOT evil; Money is NOT a tool of the devil. Money is a tool by which you can not only provide for your own family, but use to bless others - those you know personally and many you may never meet in your life. I get that you can bless others with your time and talent, but don't be fooled. You can only touch so many people with your own hands. Money can help you change lives across the world without even leaving your city!

What is wrong, is the greed that some people develop during their pursuit of wealth. Lying, cheating and scheming to advance is unacceptable. "Stepping on others" to climb your way to the top may seem like a good idea for a moment, but always remember that cheaters never prosper! This verse asserts that you'll pay for it down to your last cent and goes on to say in verse 14 that "No matter how hard you work, you'll have nothing to show for it - bankrupt lives, wasted souls."

Not sure about you, but I work too hard to be told that I'll have nothing to show for it. I've been told by colleagues that sometimes I'm honest to a fault, but whether I've had to deliver good news, bad news or horrible news, I've always done it. Because at the end of the day, I'd never want anyone to believe that I was trying to advance on account of their demise. Nor, would I want to be found at fault for such a thing when I have to answer for my life's actions. I know that I am only blessed to be a blessing, so jeopardizing my income means eliminating my opportunity to truly effect the lives of others. As one of my mentors says, "The worst thing you can do for poor people is become one of them!"

Remember that when you do whats right, your reputation will make sure that your needs are always met.

Seek Wisdom, Find Wealth & Don't Cheat!