The Economy and Your Family - Part 2

 Needs versus Greeds      
 
“and my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:19 NASB. 
 
Now, there’s a verse of comfort and promise. Does it suggest we ponder on just how rich our God is? Well, if so, know that it’s all His and that we cannot out give God. 
 
“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. 
 
But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.  For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
 
But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position; and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with a scorching wind and withers the grass; and its flower falls off and the beauty of its appearance is destroyed; so too the rich man in the midst of his pursuits will fade away.
 
Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” 
James 1:2-12
 
There are so many elements in this passage:  our attitudes, thoughts, actions, positions, possessions and a promise from the Lord. How well do we match up in these areas?
 
Here in North America we are so rich compared to the rest of the world from the common accessibility of daily necessities (clean water, available food, education opportunities, and protection) to extreme luxuries. With such privileges come responsibilities and opportunities to be good stewards. When times are tough, it is a perfect time to refocus and redirect our energies to serving those around us. You’ll find a rich return in the blessings of lifting others up and making a difference in another life – funny how it comes right back to you. Children must see this demonstrated and lived out in the lives of their parents. How are we leading?
 

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Camper Corner:
 
Be realistic and take responsibility for financial pressures within your family – be a saver, be creative, save more than you spend and don’t demand overpriced faddish accessories – KISS or Keep It Simple Sir/Sister :-D