Devotional Thoughts: Need vs. Want & Divine Contentment

I don’t know about you, but I have been thinking about what’s necessary for our family and what isn’t.  I stand on this promise that God is the supplier of our needs.  Sometimes God uses another person to help meet a need and Sometimes God wants to use me to meet the need of another.   God’s resources are unlimited especially when His people let go of things and put God first.  The tighter my grip is on things the less I trust God.

Problem is much of what we think we need is really a want.  It’s not necessary for survival.  We’re all fascinated with reality TV shows like Survivor and Naked and Afraid.   When it boils down to it we don’t need most of what we have.  I need food & water, clothing, and shelter.  I need family and friends and I need God. 

I’ve been thinking about all the luxuries I have in my home like nice smelling body wash, machines that wash my laundry, electricity, running water, indoor bathrooms, internet, entertainment through screens, more clothing that I can wear in several weeks time without wearing something twice, and the list goes on and on! 

As a family we can declare that we trust God together to meet our needs to meet our needs.  We share what have and seek to bless others in need as we go along.  Our church is having a drive through food drive for our local food bank next week as a part of Holy Week activities.  We’ll drive up and donate  food and items in a time when others are hoarding.  We know many have already been laid off from work and are trying hard to modify their lives to live more simply while this virus runs its course. 

Whether I live or die I will trust God in life and in death.  I read this quote in an email this morning that I think is worthy of sharing:  “If you can trust God for your eternity, you can trust Him for your right now.” – Michelle Myers I do not know who Michelle Myers is, but I appreciate her words to us in these times.  My God will supply my needs.  I need not worry about tomorrow, only plan as best I can and live for today.  Obey today, trust for tomorrow. 

Here’s some more words from Paul’s writings to the church at Philippi that stem from the same chapter this verse comes from:

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.  I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.  I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:11-13

If what I’m writing seems foreign or strange to you I can only assume you have not experienced the gift of contentment God grants to those who surrender to Him and follow Him.  I encourage you to ask God to reveal Himself to you.  I challenge you to read the Bible for yourself starting in the book of John.  Those who have faith questions about Christianity I welcome a connection with you.  I pray you come to know divine contentment.  Let’s live for today with the hope of tomorrow laced throughout our thoughts and actions.