Are you entitled?

One of the difficult things about living in a materialistic society is that we tend to feel “entitled” to a specific lifestyle even when we don’t fit it or can afford it. I think most people feel they are entitled to something in life because they earned it. Even Christians. God does not bless restlessness. You can’t expect God to get you out of debt, even though sometimes He will. Just because you believe that you “deserve” what you bought on credit. Remember this, “Spend less, Save More, and Be smart, don’t get ripped off.” Don’t get into the pattern of “I’m used to this lifestyle.” As you get older your lifestyle will change. To get peace of mind, learn to be content with what the Lord gives. No, means delaying your gratification and enjoying where you are on your journey to that place you are going. God gives you the power to gain wealth and so confirms His covenant with you. (Deuteronomy 8:18 “And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.) There is a secret to living in satisfaction, and it can only be found in Christ. (Philippines 4:12-13) I know what it is to be in need, 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 everything through Him who gives me strength. I think most of us can remember going through lean times and thinking why is this happening to me? Looking back, some of those times were also my happiest. I lived within my means, and I didn’t have possessions dragging me down. Take a deep breath and seek Christ, the giver of true blessings. Proverbs 10:22 says, “The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow to it.”

Tim Johnson is outreach pastor at Valley Christian Fellowship.