Money, Money, Money

This is an incredible passage that was shared in the sermon today…

“Two things I ask of you, Lord;
do not refuse me before I die:
Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
give me neither poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.
Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you
and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’
Or I may become poor and steal,
and so dishonor the name of my God.”

(Proverbs 30:7-9)

Money is a tricky thing, so this prayer rings true for me. I have no appetite when it comes to chasing riches, yet I welcome feeling financially comfortable. I always thought that was a bit of a contradiction, perhaps born out of hypocrisy, but I now see I am in good company here.

I’ve had plenty of experience depending on God for my daily bread, and though it’s not obviously desirable to be in that position by most people’s standards, it’s absolutely faith-building to see how God provides. There are seasons when God loosens the noose a bit, but that faith has prepared me for whatever may come so that I don’t get too comfortable. I need not depend on wordly success to provide for my needs as God has proven to be a generous father who blesses in many ways.

But even in the times when I feel more financial flexibility, I do fear making too much of it or gaining far beyond my needs. I truly don’t want to lose the faith God has built in my life or become consumed with the cares of this world. But I also pray for God to establish the work of my hands. It’s a delicate balance, isn’t it? I think this passage is encouraging in how to pray when navigating these desires. It’s a good place to be!