When I was girl I spent most summers participating at a summer camp in northern Minnesota called Story Book Lodge. First as a camper, then a worker, and later on as a junior counselor (being a little too rebelious I never quite made it to counselor). One of the more vivid memories I have of the many Bible lessons we received is one that was during my summer as a worker. We were all gathered in the counselors lodge. The speaker was talking about the verse in Romans 8 'and we know that all things work together for good....' He was defining what needs would be met in order for all things to 'work together for good.' He stated that needs refers to all our immediate needs: food, water, housing, clothing. "After all," He argued "How many Christians do you know that are starving?" I asked him how many non-Christians he knew that were starving. Good point he said as he quickly moved on to other topics.
So, here we are, broke. Not only did we manage to misplace close to four hundred dollars, unbeknownst to us we also managed to take out a bank loan for two dollars and twenty one cents with nearly two hundred percent interest per day. The morning after this financial crisis we woke up to a surreal peace in our home and hearts. Everything had slowed to a restful pace. Two people that are used to running around in control of ther lives were forced to slow and reevaluate their "grasp" on control. So often my husband feels enormous pressure to provide every need his family has. So often to my shame I reiterate this lie. I help him believe that he needs to take care of everything, but worst of all that he needs to always reassure me that everything is okay, and that he is full of hope, strength, and answers.
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and couregous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Proverbs 31:17 She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms srtong.
Proverbs 31:25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the days to come.
(Emphasis mine.)
God does not promise to provide what I think He should provide. Perhaps being broke is just what I 'need'. But He does promise to take care of me and give me peace that passes all understanding. Because of this covenant I too hope to laugh at the time to come.
