In this world of economic distress, we tend to want “more” — more money, more jobs, more physical security. In the church, we want “more” as well –- more attendance, more giving, more workers. All of that might sound good but is it what we need most? Maybe we need to shift from what we need more of to what we need most. Then, we can be content no matter what we have.
The Apostle Paul said, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Phil. 4:12-13)
Shifts From What We Need More Of to What We Need Most
Our perspective changes when we live like God has “blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). We already have what we truly need so let’s focus on what matters most.
- We need to shift from a focus on external needs to the internal.
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. (Prov. 4:23)
Do we want to be “more” of who God wants us to be, “more” of the person or Church who will truly be used of God to make a difference in today’s world? Then we must walk in Spirit so He bears within us the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal. 5:13-26). These qualities enable us to act and react with truth and grace in times of both plenty and want
- We need to shift from a quest for fulfilling earthly needs to seeking first the kingdom.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matt. 6:33)
As His Church, are we more concerned about “being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” or about the physical structure in which we meet? This world isn’t our real home. Ultimately the perishable will be “clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality” (1 Cor. 15:53-54), so why do we give priority to our earthly needs? When it’s about His kingdom, we don’t need to engage in all the political maneuvering to get what we need. Rather, we cast our cares on the Lord knowing that He will sustain us (Ps. 55:22).
- We need a shift from being more concerned with “things” we need to the people around us.
Above all, love each other deeply … . (1 Pet. 4:8)
Do we see the crowds of people around us in need of Jesus’ love and compassion (Matt. 9:36) or are we more focused on our programs, activities, and personal needs? Without love anything else lacks real merit (1 Cor. 13:1-3). Jesus said that “all the Law and Prophet hang on” two commandments — loving God and loving people (Matt. 22:37-40). With love as our priority, people trump things.
No matter how difficult life might seem, we can find the psalmists experience to be true in our own lives when we make that shift from what we need more of to what we need most.
I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay. You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. (Ps. 16:8-11)