Theme of the Week: Don’t Just Exist
Bible Verse: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:10-13
Getting a puppy is a wonderful thing . . . for most people. But we were reluctant. My wife has a phobia of dogs and cats. She freezes whenever and wherever one of them approaches. And both of us are germophobes. And we were busy. And we had no dog experience. Not a great recipe for bringing in an excitable, untrained, accident-prone puppy that would need a lot of time, attention and cleaning up after.
Despite all of this, we got a puppy. Why? Because we have one child who would benefit from the emotional support and another child who simply loves dogs.
The first weeks were absolute chaos. Scared germophobe wife. Puppy “accidents” were the norm. Baby gates everywhere. Sleepless nights. I thought we made the wrong decision, there were too many regrets.
But God turned things around. Granted, getting used to a new puppy, even with all our circumstances, isn’t a hardship I would bring up to others facing difficulties. But for us, it was a real trial.
The Apostle Paul encountered some severe trials during his missionary journeys. He experienced many hardships but recognized God’s hand on his life. Despite the challenges, he had seen God meet all his needs “according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:19).
Paul wasn’t going it alone. He knew that through all the ups and downs of his ministry, God was enabling him. That is why Paul could state famously in Philippians 4:13, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” He knew that the Lord provided for him, so he could confidently tell the church at Philippi that God would meet all their needs as well.
God met our need and then some. Our puppy buoyed the spirit of our child who needed it. My wife now adores him; we all do. He is even allowed to sleep on beds and couches. We all love him dearly. I’m petting him now as I write this and thank the Lord for this member of our family.
My risk was just a puppy, but it was a significant risk for our circumstances. My wife and I talked and prayed long and hard. Thankfully, God blessed us in the endeavor.
Prayer: Lord, continue to guide me. May I be willing to stand pat or to seize opportunities as you direct me. Thank you for being the one who meets my needs in Christ Jesus.
Reflection: Are you considering some risky decision? Maybe it involves a relationship, relocation, major purchase, or something else that has been weighing on your mind. Life often gives us choices. It may be easier, and sometimes wiser, to play it safe and do nothing. But maybe God is seeking to bless you and meet your needs if you would only trust him and move forward?
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