God's Joy

 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great joy to give you the Kingdom."
Luke 12:31-32

I can't tell you how many times I have looked at my bank account then looked at the bills to be paid and began to worry about how I was going to be able to pay them.  I had done everything I could think of to be frugal, but the bills always seemed to outweigh my paycheck.  Finally, I go a bit of a windfall only to have the car battery die, which chewed up the windfall plus some.  To be honest, I was more than a bit irritated with God and told Him so!

I let Him know what I thought about this little game He was playing by allowing me to get half a step ahead only to be knocked backwards 3 steps.  To my amazement, God revealed to me that it has never been His plan for me to be wealthy.  Why?  Because then I would begin to worship the wealth instead of Him. I'd begin to rely on my wealth instead of Him.  He knew my weakness and made provision for it.

I was reminded that every single bill was paid, when I am frugal, and there is always food on the table, clothes on my back, not to mention the innumerable other ways He has blessed me.  He has blessed me with a Bride who loves me in spite of myself.  He has given me a pet who is not only my buddy but one of the best therapists ever.  And so much more.

AND I was reminded that all my worrying, all my anxiety, all my fussing and cussing (yes I did), and all the fuming did absolutely nothing to extend my life or increase my joy.  In fact, it stole my joy and contributes to some health issues.

Take a moment and think about all that God has provided for you.  Thank Him for them.  Write them down so you won't forget them.  Learn gratitude.  Accept that we don't need trophies or awards to prove God has blessed us.  God will show that Himself!!!