I don't know if this is the right place to put this, but I am asking this question here, to my brothers and sisters in Christ, but also, please feel free to make a comment on your opinion if you are an unbeliever, or atheist also, or other religion also, your opinion also really matters about this question.
My question is: I have been wondering recently if I were to be a certain way with my money and things, if God would be more likely to answer my prayers and fastings. I have wondered if I decided that if I just don't buy anything outside of what I need, then would God be more likely to answer my prayers. Not necessarily big things, or expensive things, but little nice things, like a bottle of perfume I like that costs $5 or a cheap dress ($20) or things like that. I have wondered if I choose to not use somewhat nice body wash (costs $7 a bottle) and just bar soap then would that move God to answer my prayers more. I feel like anything outside what I need would be materialism. Do you agree? I have been thinking that it is. And so many people don't even have what they need. How is it right for me to spend even a tiny amount on myself if other people don't even have what they need? I have set aside a lot for others, and when I see a need I try to help every time. Still, I feel like God is not pleased with me getting any extra things, even the tiniest things. I think that not only is it materialism, but if I can cause God to answer my prayers even more because of going without some nice things, then shouldn't I do that? What do you think? Have I concluded correctly? All opinions are welcome, believer or unbeliever, I want to know also unbelievers' opinions because part of being this way is a witness for unbelievers. Please let me know what you think if you want.