There isn’t a person on the face of the earth who doesn’t experience need. While there are certainly people who have the wherewithal to afford whatever they desire, there are intangible needs that all the money in the world can’t afford.
As followers of Christ, we are urged to set our affections on eternal things (Colossians 3:2)
and
depend on our Heavenly Father to provide our needs (Matthew 6:31-32).
This is easier said than done.
We live in a world where we are often told what we need.
We are so flooded with needless information through television commercials, printed ads and social media, that is difficult for us to determine what we need from what we desire. The chase for our wants, even if they are obtained, leaves us unfulfilled, unsatisfied, and still wanting more. King Solomon was candid about his personal emptiness because of his personal pursuit for, well, everything (Ecclesiastes 2:1-11). For him, the answer that fulfilled him was purpose that was rooted in obedience to God and keeping His commands (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
Our Christ echoes this sentiment. He says if we would first “seek His Kingdom” and “His righteousness” that our needs would be “added unto to us” (Matthew 6:33).
Serving Him with our whole life opens Him up to take care of our whole life.
This does not give us license to be slothful. It does, however, teach us to prioritize what is most important. Our greatest need is to live for Christ totally (Mark 12:30). When He provides the means for our needs we manage them well because we know that they came from Him (Deuteronomy 8:18).
We can live on what He has enabled us to have if we manage it well.
There are several things a person can do (or not do) that can help you get started. Here are a few:
Don’t covet: Lusting for what someone else has will keep you unhappy about what you have. Discontentment will always rob you of your joy.
Think responsibly: Wants should never come before needs. A want pleases the flesh while a need provides care for it.
Live within your means: This is simple. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it. Tell yourself “no”.
Let’s pray.
Father, thank You for everything You’ve given me. I am grateful for the life You’ve blessed me with. I am aware that others would love to be in my position with my lot in life. Forgive me if I have ever acted ungratefully. Continue, Lord, to teach me Your ways. Show me daily how to manage my life, my money and my time. Help me to get the most out of what I have so that I can serve You and Your Kingdom in a more excellent way. Keep me mindful of the source of my blessings. Father, I am forever thankful for your favor and will strive to be a good steward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
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