Where is Your Hope?

1 Timothy 6:17
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides with everything for our enjoyment.

When I resign from my job several years back, my husband, Danny, is understandably concerned.  We have enjoyed two incomes since we married and the extra perks which come with them.  In losing one of those incomes, we know we have to make some financial adjustments.

"And, if things start to get tight," I reassure him, "I'll look for a part-time job.  In fact, I'll begin looking this week if it makes you feel better."

"No, don't look right away," Danny says.  "You are burned out from working, and I'm more concerned about your health than our wealth.  We'll get by.  If there's one thing I know how to do, it's sticking to a budget.

That's the understatement of the year.  Danny keeps monthly budgets on Excel spreadsheets.  It's serious business!

"Well, if you're sure . . ."

"Positive."

But, I note a trace of apprehension in Danny's voice.  I reach out and take his hand.

"Don't worry, honey.  God is all over this.  I can feel it!  He will provide."

~

Now, as I reflect upon where we were then and where God has brought us today, I stand in awe and wonder . . .

That part-time job?  I applied for several, but got nowhere.  God closed those doors.  Tight!

Did we scale back our expenditures?  Yes, we did, but to this day, we haven't felt economically pinched or deprived in any way.

Did we worry?  I would be lying if I said, "no."  But, we kept returning to the Lord in prayer for wisdom, guidance and peace of mind.

And, if God hadn't insisted that I stay at home,  you would not be reading this.  I wouldn't have started a blog.  I wouldn't have a total of 460 devotions under my belt.

Most importantly, I wouldn't have published novels.  For it was my story synopsis coupled with the link to my blog which convinced my publisher to take me on.

And, if that weren't enough, just recently, we are incredibly blessed both by some long-expected and unexpected windfalls.  Wow!

We are overwhelmed.  We are thankful.

We are blessed . . .

~

Where is your hope?

Will you join me in prayer?

Especially in these troubling economic times, Father, it is difficult for many to place their hope in You when worries and fears in the present moment surround them.  I pray today for all who need a job, food on the table, and a place to call home.  Comfort them with Your presence, dear Lord, and lead them to have hope in You.  Amen.

For another look at God's provision for us, I invite you to visit my friend, Andy Wood, at his blog entitled Lifevesting.