“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:19, New Living Translation.
When you are surrounded by needs and everyone you love and care for is in financial crisis, your heart goes out to them. You want to do whatever you can to help them, because that’s how you are wired. But it would be wise, my sister, to pause and not do anything right away. I know that doesn’t sound very Christ-like, but doing nothing allows you the opportunity to receive God’s wisdom and direction. It allows you the opportunity to see if God wants to provide for your loved one in a different way. It also allows them the opportunity to pray and watch God come through for them, which strengthens their relationship with the Lord. If you allow every emergency to become your emergency, you risk making poor decisions that would put you and your family in a bad spot financially–and now you’re in need.
When writing to the church at Philippi, the Apostle Paul said, “My God shall supply all of your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” He didn’t say, I’m going to supply all of your needs; he put the expectation on God. He had learned how to trust in Him and he learned the importance of being content in whatever state he found himself in.
When people you love are in need, don’t do anything right away. Don’t make any promises you can’t afford to keep. Consult with God and with your spouse. You’re better off saying, “You’re not alone in this situation. We’re going to trust God together to supply all of your need.”
This takes growth and maturity, and I believe you are well on your way!
Prayer: Father God, thank you for your wisdom. It hurts my heart to see my loved one struggling financially. You wired me to help people and minister to needs. But help me, Lord, to pause and not rush ahead of you. Give me wisdom and direction in every situation that comes my way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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