There was a big rush at Loyang Tua Pek Kong Temple on Wednesday night as devotees rushed to place their joss sticks in the large god of fortune urn on the temple’s main stage. They hoped to be the first to offer their joss sticks immediately after the clock strikes 12. This practice is believed to bring wealth, prosperity and luck. Some then bought packs that contained auspicious numbers for betting on 4D. These packs were sold to worshippers at prices of $5, $8 or $10.

Some people may not be there to offer joss sticks to the god of fortune. Many, however, rely instead on other “gods” like their colleagues, bosses or even a country’s leaders to help them earn more money.

It is understandable that people are concerned about earning more money. It is a fact that we need money to live our everyday life normally. Having a bit more money also means that we can buy better things or eat better food. The critical question, however, is: Where do blessings come from?

A Biblical Perspective

The Bible tells us that “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lightswith whom there is no variation or shadow due to change” (Jam 1:17). But why is God the only one who can give us good things? First, that is because He alone is almighty. Nothing is impossible with Him. Thus, there is nothing that He cannot give us. Also, no one else can give you good things because no one except God is almighty.

Second, the Bible describes this God as “Father of lights.” That means that He gives us things out of a loving father’s heart and because He is “of lights,” what He gives us is holy, good and it contains no darkness or anything that can hurt us. Thank God that He does not give us everything that we ask because some things are actually harmful to us. Instead, He gives us according to His holy wisdom. But if there is anything that is good for you, you can be sure that He will give it to you. And how can He not because “He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?” (Rom 8:32). “The blessing of the Lord brings wealth and He adds no trouble with it” (Prov 10:22).

Honour the Lord

Dear friends, only God who is almighty, holy, wise and loving can give you all things that are truly good for you. Believe in Jesus the true and living God today and He will give you the best gift: eternal life. One day, you and I must face the terrible enemy: death. Furthermore, in this world, there will be sufferings that are beyond your control. If Jesus is your Lord and Saviour, you will find real peace and meaning in life.

Dear Christians, honour the Lord by giving Him your best. Honour Him. Stop loving sin or the world. Love and serve Him faithfully. “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be give to you as well” (Matt 6:33).