“The Perils of Pride and Prosperity”

Ed J. Pinegar, Richard J. Allen

The warning has been given by prophets and wise thinkers over the ages about the single-hearted obsession with material wealth and riches at the expense of living the gospel. Let us become aware of the pitfalls of prosperity and guard against an allegiance to worldly abundance without regard for covenant honor. Here are a few examples of counsel against pride and worldliness:

• “But before ye seek for riches, seek ye for the kingdom of God” (Jacob 2:18).
• “Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches… .” (Jeremiah 9:23).
• “The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God” (Matthew 19:20–24).
• The most severe test that has ever come to any people is the test of peace and prosperity. Having survived the troubles of the past I am as sure as that I live that this Church, the great majority of this people, will stand the test of peace and of prosperity. Though many may fall, though many may hesitate and falter, this work is established to stand forever, and never to fail. It is founded upon the truth” (Elder Melvin J. Ballard, CR, October 1928, 110–111).
• “Not only are emergencies, accidents, sicknesses, diseases, discouragements, disappointments, reverses, failures, and temptations the tests for which we prepare, but there are also things that we might not consider in the normal line of a test. One of these is prosperity. Sometimes prosperity makes it harder to remain spiritual. Sometimes the luxury of a fishing boat makes us break the Sabbath. Sometimes a condominium at a resort keeps us from holding positions or filling positions properly in our home ward. Prosperity is a test. Can we handle wealth and remain spiritual?” (Elder Robert E. Wells, “The Message: How Well Can You Fly It When Everything Goes Wrong?” New Era, Jun. 1978, 4ff).

Commentaries and Insights on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 2

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