The "Rich" Blessing

Proverbs 10:22 says: The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. (KJV) The Hebrew word for blessing is berākâ and it means in general terms "good favor bestowed on another. This may be expressed in the giving of a tangible gift (Gen. 33:11; 1 Sam. 25:27) or in the pronouncing of a verbal blessing (Gen. 27:36; 49:28). Most often, however, this word speaks of God's favor on the righteous." This is a tangible blessing. The result of having this blessing is something that can be known by one of the five senses. In other words, this is not just a spiritual feeling good; it is receiving something that is good. The word "rich" is the Hebrew word ʿāshar and it means "to become rich. It means to be or to become wealthy in money, possessions, or influence. Its simple meaning is to become rich." So the blessing brings riches. This is not limited to monetary matters. It is to be rich in God's blessings and favor.

Notice that the verse also says that the blessing of the Lord comes with no sorrow. If you are at a job that you detest, around people that seek to harm you with gossip and backbiting, you can be sure that you are not blessed. This is different from persecution for your faith. I'm talking about a place of sorrow. If you are in that place, check what brought you there because it wasn't the blessing of God. Determine where you may have missed it and adjust accordingly. Again, if you are being persecuted for your faith that is an entirely separate issue.

You need to know that God wants to give you His blessing. He is not trying to hide it from you; He is trying to bless you with His "blessing." Get to a place where you can receive it. The path to that place is paved with obedience. Obey His Word and the blessing will come. Know that it is not based on your works. However, your actions can block the blessing from coming. Obedience to His Word opens the gates to the "rich" blessing.