There Is No Lack

“And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (Paul, writing to the church at Philippi, Philippians 4:19-20)

“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God.” (Luke 12:6-8)

Which of these statements is most true of where you are this week?

A. My schedule is crammed with projects, meetings, and weighty determinations that give me a headache just thinking about them.
B. At least one big payment is due by Friday; the headache is spreading to my neck.
C. Demands are threatening to swamp my supply of time, talent, treasure and energy; is it still only Monday?
D. All of the above.
E. None of the above; I can’t think if a single challenge, need or uncertainty.

If you picked “E,” then Good On Ya! (Assuming you’re in touch with reality.) If you chose A, B, C or D, I pray you’ll join me in receiving great encouragement from a divine reminder: “Lack” is an unknown concept in God’s economy. More than enough resources exist to accomplish the purposes that He has established for our lives. As my pastor puts it, “God’s work done in God’s timing will never lack God’s supply.”[1] This is true for our vocations, our relationships, our finances, our families — for all of the areas in which we’re called to honor God by serving and loving others. Fear and worry need not bind us; they will melt away as we place (or re-place) childlike trust in the Lord’s goodness, believing that He will be faithful to meet us precisely at our point of need — and then allowing His perfect peace to wash over us as we wait. Our big question, then, is no longer a fretful one: “Where in the world are we going to come up with this?” but a contented one: “What amazing ways will God demonstrate His power and love by meeting our needs in this circumstance?”

Heavenly Father, thank you that you have apportioned enough time, talent, treasure, and other resources to complete your good, pleasing plans. As we draw near to you in reliance and gratitude, we will wait expectantly to see your mighty hand of provision at work in and through our lives. Amen.