The members of the younger generation would do well to
ponder the above statement of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in which He conditions the
acquisition of wealth on diligent work and the grace of God. Let them weigh
carefully in their hearts and minds the difference between gaining wealth
through earnest effort in fields such as agriculture, commerce, the arts, and
industry, on the one hand, and, on the other, obtaining it without exertion or
through dishonourable means. Let them consider the consequences of each for the
spiritual development of the individual, as well as the progress of society,
and ask themselves what possibilities exist for generating income and acquiring
wealth that will draw down confirmations from on high. It will surely become
evident, as they do so, that what will attract God’s blessings and ensure true
happiness both in this world and in the next is the development of spiritual
qualities, such as honesty, trustworthiness, generosity, justice, and
consideration for others, and the recognition that material means are to be
expended for the betterment of the world.
- The Universal House of Justice (From
a letter dated 2 April 2010, addressed to the Believers in the Cradle of the
Faith)
