My husband has recently taken up the position of Pastor at a church here in the UK. It’s a training position, and as such, the wage isn’t very substantial and it has got me thinking about God’s provision. I have been wondering what my position is in terms of poverty or prosperity; there seems to be some tension between the idea that being a Christian means having enough to get by, and the idea that as God’s kids we should be well provided for.
Looking back at my life I can see many times when God has stepped in to provide for us in unexpected ways when it seemed our backs were against the wall, so I can confidently say that God is faithful to provide, but can I say that God provides abundantly?
I believe God is extravagant with His love, mercy, grace and forgiveness; I don’t think He is stingy, nor do I think He has to have His arm twisted to give His children good things. I believe His actions are determined by His nature, so a generous God gives generously. Why then aren’t we all materially blessed? Why do many Christians only have their daily bread and no more? Why can’t we seem to tap into the Heavenly bank account as we want to?
The Bible shows us many examples of God’s generosity. People like Abraham, Job, David and Solomon were blessed beyond measure with all kinds of riches, and there are many wealthy Christians in the world today, but in my own life, I don’t see it.
Just enough’ isn’t enough for me – how can we help others when we are only just managing to pay our own bills? I want to show the world how good God is by how much nice stuff he gives us!
I was recently challenged to examine my motives in my desire for more, and when all is stripped away, what is left? 1 Cor 13 v 13 says, ‘And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.’ So, at the end of the day, it’s all about love. Love should underlie everything. And to be really honest, my desire for more ‘stuff’ doesn’t stem from my love for God or His people, it’s more about my own comfort than any virtuous motivation!
As Jesus tells us, ‘But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.’ Maybe if my mind was on more heavenly matters, I wouldn’t pay so much attention to the fact that our neighbours have better cars than us, or can afford to buy new things that haven’t been ‘pre-loved’ (a euphemism for ‘second-hand’). In the eternal scheme of things, what do cars and clothes really count for anyway?
Looking at Paul’s life, he knew what it was to have plenty and he knew what it was to be in need, yet he said he had learned to be content in all circumstances. My conclusion is that God will always provide enough. That I am sure of. Whether He will provide abundantly is up to Him; what I need to do is learn to be thankful for what I have, and lift my eyes from the temporal to the eternal and in doing so, by God’s grace I’ll find contentment. I hope you do too.
by Jo Parkins
