January 6, 2012 in Deep Thoughts by Ben
God WILL supply
Philippians 4:19 “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
What do you think of when you read that? That is the question I am asking myself everyday. It had been a difficult ending to 2011, and it seems that 2012 will just be even more difficult. We are living paycheck to paycheck and while this is new to us, I know this isn’t new to many, many people all across the city, state, nation, and world. What is the answer though? The stress is tough, the sacrifices are plenty, and sometimes it seems that there is no hope. Then again…there’s that verse.
What is a need? Sometimes I hear kids (or adults) saying “I need” such-and-such but often times that NEED is simply a WANT. That’s something my dad taught me a long time ago that has stuck with me into adulthood – the difference between the two. There are many things that I really, REALLY want, but that verse doesn’t say God will supply all my wants, but simply my needs. I must say that so far, it has been true. It’s not necessarily fun, but it’s true.
What about you? When you think you are at the end of your ability to provide and make ends meet do you find that God somehow comes through? Call it charity from family or friends, call it a break in your insurance, call it extra hours at work, and call it whatever else you want to, but Paul said it all when he wrote that verse. Do you see it holding true in your life?
January 8, 2012 at 6:20 pm
We have had a little practice with this, as it’s the second time we’ve been in this situation. I always remember stories I’ve heard of people who had unexpected checks in the exact amount of the overdue rent show up in the mailbox, etc, etc. For a long time I had it in my head that that’s how God would provide when the bills are late or times are tough. But I can only think of one time that’s happened for us.
What I have learned (and keep having to re-learn) is that
1. more often we have to humble ourselves enough to ask for help when we really do NEED it
2. God doesn’t always give us the money we need, he gives us the strength to trust him no matter what.
I’m thankful for a husband who works hard to help take care of us, and who cares enough to do everything possible to make ends meet. But even more importantly, I’m thankful to have a husband who is willing to step out in faith to pursue God’s call – no matter how difficult the process may be!