We live in economic times we’ve not seen for quite some time, which is kind of scary. One of the scariest parts is not knowing how my family’s and my needs will be met. While I have no real idea where our economy is headed, I know someone who does; our Lord Jesus. I have found in any uncertain time the best plan is to trust God. Matthew 6:25-26 says, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable then they?”NIV
Did you see that last part? “Are you not much more valuable then they?” Jesus says this to you today, that you are valuable and He will care for you. But you may wonder how that works or think, “What do I need to do?” The answer is a few verses later in Mathew 6:33 which says, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.”NIV
I have seen this in my own life. I few years ago I found myself in a very tight financial situation. I realized I did not have enough money to pay my bills each month; a very scary situation. I found myself engrossed and focusing on my money problems and hording my money and not giving as freely as I felt God wanted me to. I still gave my tithe to the church but not a penny more. Also, when opportunities to give that weren’t even costly, I would pass. After a while I realized I needed to do all I could to correct my situation, but I also needed to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness. Part of that was my relationship with Jesus. Even more for me, was responding to those urging to help when it was not detrimental, and trusting that God would take care of me too.
Another thing I have learned through this process is what is really important and brings joy to me. It’s slightly different for each of us - other than our relationship with Jesus. I have found I really enjoy spending time with family, or friends, watching a good movie with one of my cats on my lap or helping someone with their accounting, personal finances or even taxes. So I would encourage you to use this as a time to evaluate what is worth spending your hard earned money on. Trust God to take care of those needs where we don’t see how it will ever work out. God is bigger than whatever is in your future, and He’s crazy about you!
I’d love to hear what you’ve found is really important in your life and brings you joy.
Blessings,
Susan
