Understanding True Prosperity in Simple Words
When we hear someone talk about being “prosperous,” we usually think of money, success, good health, or having life go our way. But in a little letter tucked away in the Bible, the Apostle John writes to his friend Gaius with a different view. He prays, “Dear friend, I pray that in all things you may prosper and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
Let’s break that down in plain language.
What is a Prosperous Soul?
A prosperous soul isn’t about your bank account or your career. It means having something strong and healthy inside you—your spirit, your heart, your inner life. John’s prayer is basically: “I hope that your outside life is as rich and healthy as your inside life.” In other words, if your soul is doing well, that’s the most important prosperity of all.
What Does a Prosperous Soul Look Like?
· The Truth Inside: First, John says that a prosperous soul is one where “the truth” lives inside. This “truth” means the message and example of Jesus Christ—His love, kindness, and teachings. When you let Jesus’ message shape who you are, you become more loving, honest, and grounded. That’s true spiritual health.
· Walking the Walk: It’s not just about knowing the right things or believing in your heart. A prosperous soul lives out those good things every day—treating people well, keeping promises, acting fairly. John says that Gaius “walks in the truth,” meaning his actions match his beliefs.
· Acting in Faith: The prosperous soul does things out of faith and trust in God. It means you live your life, do your work, and care for others because you trust that Jesus loves you and is guiding you. This kind of faith is the starting point for all the good things in your life.
How Do You Get a Prosperous Soul?
It’s pretty simple, but not always easy. You let God’s love in—by being open, by listening, and by letting Jesus’ teachings shape your attitudes and choices. It’s like opening a flower to the sunshine; the more you open up, the more light and life you receive. You keep growing by reading the Bible, praying, and trying to live out what you learn. When you do that, your soul is healthy and strong.
What About Wealth and Health?
John does pray for his friend to have good health and success, but notice what he’s really saying: “I hope your outer life is as good as your inner life.” If we swapped our financial or physical health for our soul’s health, would we be better off? For some of us, that’s a tough question! The idea is, your spiritual health should be the foundation—it’s much better to have a healthy soul and an average bank account than the other way around.
The Dangers of Outward Prosperity
John’s prayer is wise. Sometimes, when life goes really well on the outside, people forget about what’s inside. Too much outward success can actually harm your spiritual life if you’re not careful. But if you have your inner life in order, you’ll be able to handle both the good and the tough times.
Why Inner Prosperity Is Superior
John doesn’t say it’s wrong to want good things or to pray for health and comfort—even Jesus taught us to pray for our “daily bread.” But he reminds us that the health of our soul is even more important. When your soul prospers, you can turn even tough situations into something good. You find meaning, hope, and growth in every season of life.
The Bottom Line
True prosperity is having Jesus at the center of your life, letting His truth shape both who you are inside and how you live. If your inner life thrives, everything else in life falls into its right place. That’s the kind of prosperity John wanted for his friend, and it’s what we should want for ourselves and each other.
Minister A Francine Green I July 2025
afrancinegreen.com 