Are you familiar with the TV show, Who Wants to Be a
Millionaire? Contestants are subjected to a series of multiple-choice questions
that increase in the level of difficulty with each correct answer. Their
correct responses qualify them for advancement to the next level, where they
are afforded the opportunity to win up to one million dollars. In a sense, God
is the same way with us. He watches to see if we will do what it takes to
advance to the next level of financial prosperity. Beyond confessing that you
are a millionaire, have you qualified to receive millions? And if so, do you
know how to maintain and increase that level of abundance?
Your first step in preparation for millionaire status is the
qualification round. To qualify, you must be faithful in the little things
(Luke 16:10). This means being a good steward of the finances you already
possess. For example, “God robbers” (those who fail to tithe and give
offerings) don’t qualify for millions (Malachi 3:8). The tithe, which is 10
percent of all your increase, is your covenant connection to the promises of
God. It is an act of love toward God and is critical because it keeps the enemy
from devouring your assets. The offering is the amount that you give over and
above the tithe. When you refuse to sow financial seed into the Kingdom of God,
you block what your heavenly Father can do in your life. This is a very
important key to financial prosperity. After you’ve brought God your tithes and
have given offerings, He is free to begin the process of increase in your life.
As you begin to see increase, remember to offer your
firstfruits. Firstfruits are “the first of your increase” and are holy to God
(Ezekiel 20:40). They cause the blessing to rest on your house (Ezekiel 44:30).
For instance, if you begin a new job, then the difference between your old
salary and your first week’s salary at your new job is the firstfruit of your
increase. This also includes raises. For example, if you just received a raise
from N4700 to N5000 a week, then your firstfruit offering would be the first N300 from your new paycheck. To position yourself for great wealth, you must change
your thinking and banish any thoughts of fear regarding your giving.
Another part of being faithful with what you already have
includes being accountable, organized and having an effective budget. This
means not spending money as quickly as you earn it. Organize your life by
opening checking and savings accounts and reconciling them regularly, and then
create a budget that reflects your true spending habits. A budget will show you
where you are overspending, how much debt you’re in and where you can cut costs
and save. It also helps you to prioritize your financial life. Know exactly to
whom you owe money and the amount owed down to the penny. After you’ve done
this, write out a “grant” for the total amount of debt owed, stand on John
16:23 (AMP) and watch God supernaturally cancel your debts through favour and
increase. These actions show God that you are lining things up in the natural
realm; thus, you open the door for Him to bring the miraculous your way.
If you are serious about becoming a millionaire, begin to
investigate investments and educate yourself on financial matters so that
you’ll be prepared when your wealth manifests. Learn more about the stock
market, real estate, IRAs and trusts, as well as estate planning to provide for
your grandchildren (Proverbs 13:22). Map out a plan for increased giving and
ways to promote the Kingdom of God with your money—plan to be God’s
distribution centre!
Finally, begin to seek God for the mission He has for your
new found abundance. The believer who knows
his mission and deals wisely in
money matters will always succeed in every endeavour!
