A Day-by-day devotional

April 16, 2023

Jireh

Chronological One Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Samuel 5-10

Scripture of the Day: Philippians 4:10-13

There are many things we wish for in life. We want a lot of things. Though we do not need most of them, due to our wanting them, we seek to have them. We want a big house by the lake, a better paying job, a beautiful wife, a hunk for a boyfriend, high grades, promotion. The list goes on and on.

There are lots of things I thought I needed but as time went by, I realized, I am able to live without. Therefore, I came to the conclusion that I do not really need them. I just wanted them.

When we want a lot of things in life but we never seem to get hold of them, we would end up not being satisfied. Sometimes, this dissatisfaction could even lead to us questioning whether or not God really cares about our needs.

The mere fact that we only basically need food, clothing and shelter to thrive in life, if you are in the possession of all three, you have all that you physically need. Anything that you have beyond are extras. Hence, when you are endowed with the basic needs, you should be able to live and be grateful.

However, because we often have desirous hearts, we long to have more than we need. We are not satisfied with whatever it is that we already have. There is nothing wrong with dreaming for a better life and future. But we need to be careful to not let our lives be dictated by our quest for more. Do not be enslaved by work, ambitions, and most of all the prospects of prosperity.

If you have placed God at the center of your life, your satisfaction no longer comes from your material possessions. Earthly treasures come, but they could also go. You have to weigh in your wants versus your needs. God provides. He is Jehovah Jireh (Genesis 22:14). And He is more than enough!

Nobody can ever satisfy like our God. If you are hungry, He is the bread of life. If you are thirsty, He is the living water (John 6:35). He is our mighty strength and shelter (Psalm 46:1). On top of it all, He clothes us with His righteousness (Isaiah 61:10).

Reflection: Do you ever feel a lack in life? Have you ever considered pondering upon what you actually have? Of those that you possess, how many are beyond your needs?

Prayer: Jireh, my Lord and Provider! You are more than enough for me. Thank you for all your provisions. Amen.