Discover His heart: In response to our seeking Him, He provides all that we need.
@ Luke 12
The rich man in the parable of Luke 12 had worked hard to store away more crops than he would ever need, so much so that new barns had to be built to house all of it. This had been his focus in life, and now he could sit back and reap the rewards…take a cruise, buy the oceanfront condo and drive that new Mercedes. Except, he died before he could realize his reward.
God called him a fool, “You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’ Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.’” (20-21) Ouch! I don’t want to be in line for that speech.
We seldom connect the next group of scriptures about worry and God’s abundant provision with the previous parable, but Jesus did just that, “Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, ‘That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing.’”(22-23)
God isn’t asking us to avoid worrying about everyday life because He is the big Genie in the sky who will provide all the earthly wealth we want and need. No, He doesn’t want us to worry about everyday life because in comparison to our relationship with Him and eternal wealth, these things are less than important, and He already has it all covered anyway. Sometimes we forget that He can’t be fooled. He knows when we are worried, and He knows what we are worried about.
“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek first the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.” (29-31) I’ve discovered something interesting about this promise—the more I know Him and His righteousness, the less I seem to need. But whatever amount that is, I am confident He will provide it.
This is why the little family that loves the Lord with everything that is in them, living in some remote village in the world with very little to call their own can consider themselves rich. The truth in His word is universal. We may be blessed with material wealth as well as spiritual wealth, but even if we lose all of our possessions like so many experienced today, we are still rich!
Moving Forward: I will seek the Lord first today and find the richness of His presence. No worries.
Tomorrow @ Ephesians 4-6
Phyllis Benigas 