Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
An Anglican cleric, Venerable Ekenechukwu Nwafor, has charged Christians to work hard to earn their living while abiding by the principles of good Christian living.
Ven. Nwafor, who is the Vicar at the Church of The Pentecost (CoP), Awka Diocese, Anglican Communion, gave the advise during a Sunday service in the church.
Delivering his sermon titled: “Wealth Creation in a Challenging Economy: The Christian Perspective,” the Vicar urged Christians to strive to attain financial independence as money is one of the necessities of life.
He noted that things are already hard and people are struggling to cope with the present unsteady economic condition of the country.
Ven. Nwafor said Christians must strive to make wealth to survive.
According to him, being a Christian alone is not a licence to wealth, but guarantees access to God’s grace and anointing to flourish in one’s endeavor.
He reminded that God is the sole source of supply, while business remains the only system ordained to create wealth.
He urged them to be strategic in their planning, financial management and develop ability to spot and utilise opportunities.
According to Nwafor, “God is not against wealth creation,” adding that “God created human beings on earth to subdue it; to be in charge and control. God said we should use the money to trade and do business while he comes.”
“It is the desire of God that Christians prosper. It is not wrong if a child of God owns the highest refinery in Nigeria or airline. Money is an essential thing in life, so to desire for money is not evil.”
He said: “Christians need some basic amenities to convey them to areas to preach the gospel, to fund kingdom work, to provide for one’s household and to subdue challenges.”
He also said Psalm 92 verses 13 and 14 warn that parents should not be lazy such that even in old age, they can still be afloat and be cherished by their children, instead of being liability to them.
Speaking further, Ven. Nwafor said what God does not desire is sharing His glory and His place in one’s life. According to him, money should be a servant and not master.
“You cannot serve God and money at the same time. You must give Him his place.
1 Timothy 6:3 says when you allow things you acquire on earth to be the master, that is the part we depart from the true part of righteousness.
“The grace that enables one to rise to the top is of God, but unfortunately God blesses many with wonderful talents and wealth, but they choose to make it their god.”
He urged Christians to be born again such that God will help them grow their business and change their situations for better.
