|
Users viewing this topic:
none
|
|
Login  | |
|
difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 10:51:19 AM
|
|
|
applemom
Posts: 76
Joined: 4/28/2005
Status: offline
|
The topic for this week in a study I am leading is God's provision.
I have wondered about this before and then decided that continually questioning God is a type of walking by sight rather than faith.
But it would seem God has brought me back to this question.
Now please understand I have seen God provide for me at different times.
However, at this time, there is a shortfall. I have bills overdue, no money coming. Commitments that I prayed about before committing to, that I now can't keep.
God can and does provide but there is no denying that many people do do without.
There seems to be a descrepentcy between what the Bible says God can do and what I see around me.
I am not sure how to reconcile the idea that God will provide all my needs, He knows the lilies of the field and I am of more value than 2 sparrows, yet financially my basic needs are not being met.
The study guide is soooo positive and glowing, ah God...supplies all our needs so we want for nothing.
How many Christian martyrs are there? Is what they are doing a different category somehow?
How can I teach this when at the moment I am waiting for Gods provision and not seeing it.
Tongue in cheek-Yes, I know going bankrupt may be freeing in some way, if my husband and I don't get along we may separate and yea more freedom from the bickering, but are these answers really God's first choice?
please help me sort this out.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 11:18:59 AM
|
|
|
rcjames
Posts: 8201
Joined: 7/15/2005
From: Oklahoma
Status: offline
|
Sometimes the difficulty with God's provisions is understanding the difference between "Needs" and "Wants".
We are also promised that we will be chastized, and sometimes not being good stewards of what God has provided brings about that chastizment.
(Heb 12:5) And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
(Heb 12:6) For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
(Heb 12:7) If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
(Heb 12:8) But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye ****s, and not sons.
(Heb 12:9) Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh who corrected us, and we gave them reverence. Shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?
(Heb 12:10) For truly they chastened us for a few days according to their own pleasure, but He for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness.
(Heb 12:11) Now chastening for the present does not seem to be joyous, but grievous. Nevertheless afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who are exercised by it.
(Heb 12:12) Because of this, straighten up the hands which hang down and the enfeebled knees.
(Heb 12:13) And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way, but let it rather be healed.
(Heb 12:14) Follow peace with all, and holiness, without which no one shall see the Lord;
Thanks
RC
_____________________________
Just a country Preacher's humble opinion
Read the first chapter of my latest book here;
http://www.deliveranceofsara.com
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 2:17:18 PM
|
|
|
Dakotasunbeam
Posts: 699
Joined: 6/2/2005
Status: offline
|
applemom,
rcjames' post is absolutely spot on. There is a difference between needs and wants. Often we make the mistake of assumming a want is a need. Additionally, God may allow some of these things into our life to show us where we are making mistakes and detrimental flaws in our stewardship, how we respond to people, God, situations, etc.
God may even be testing us to see whether we will stay with him and not doubt or be double-minded in times when it looks like God has forsaken us. If we truly believe in the character of God, then we should know that He will not forsake us and we will walk through (albiet a struggle) that period of testing.
Do not doubt, only believe.
quote:
ORIGINAL: rcjames
Sometimes the difficulty with God's provisions is understanding the difference between "Needs" and "Wants".
We are also promised that we will be chastized, and sometimes not being good stewards of what God has provided brings about that chastizment.
(Heb 12:5) And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:
(Heb 12:6) For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
(Heb 12:7) If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?
(Heb 12:8) But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye ****s, and not sons.
(Heb 12:9) Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh who corrected us, and we gave them reverence. Shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live?
(Heb 12:10) For truly they chastened us for a few days according to their own pleasure, but He for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness.
(Heb 12:11) Now chastening for the present does not seem to be joyous, but grievous. Nevertheless afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who are exercised by it.
(Heb 12:12) Because of this, straighten up the hands which hang down and the enfeebled knees.
(Heb 12:13) And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way, but let it rather be healed.
(Heb 12:14) Follow peace with all, and holiness, without which no one shall see the Lord;
Thanks
RC
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 2:46:04 PM
|
|
|
3cappuccinosmom
Posts: 3999
Joined: 4/12/2005
Status: offline
|
quote:
Sometimes the difficulty with God's provisions is understanding the difference between "Needs" and "Wants".
I agree with this.
I have found, looking back, that many times God's provision does not involve dumping more money or better stuff on me, but teaching me how to "want for nothing". That is a state of mind, not a financial circumstance. My children and I were just working on a new memory verse, talking about contentment..."But Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world and we can take nothing out of it. Therefore, if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that " (or "happy!" as my 2 yo likes to end that verse  ) 2 Tim 6:6-8. That was written by Paul, who also wrote about learning to be content in whatever circumstance he found himself, whether that was in comfort and plenty, or in chains in a filthy Roman prison.
Many people "do without". In America, though, or any Western country, what does "doing without" mean, exactly? If we have nothing else, we have minimal provision available to use through tax-payer funded programs and private charities. In America you do not have to starve to death. Are you starving? Are you naked? Is clean water available to you? If you can answer "No" to all three, then God is providing for your needs. Being provided for doesn't mean we will never struggle or have hardships.
In other countries, people do suffer true lack, and even die due to that lack. Sometimes that is a result of poor personal financial management, sometimes due to the sin of others, or even the greediness and sin of their government. Because we have free will, we do sometimes suffer the consequences of our own poor choices, or of the bad choices of those who have influence/authority over us. That is part of human life.
And yes, martyrdom is a seperate category. We are told we will face trials and persecution. God will provide in that time as well, but his provision will not necessarily be a physical rescue from danger or death. It may be the opportunity to testify to high authorities, to give a witness with one's very life, to rescue others from the pit of Hell, to lay down one's life in order to save another. If you haven't yet, sign up for Voice of the Martyr's and Gospel For Asia's free newsletters, and read them every month. They are *full* of accounts of God's provision in the midst of severe persecution and suffering. I think reading the words of people who truly are lacking in material wealth, and who regularly suffer from persecution will help you get a better understanding of how God's provision works with suffering and lack. And maybe put your own difficulties in perspective.
The other important thing to remember is that we are bound in our understanding by space and time. We can only see what is in the past, and what is in the moment. We cannot see in the future. We also have a limited understanding of what is going on right now. In some circumstances, we may not be able to see God's provision in a situation until many years have past and we look at it with a fuller understanding of our lives and of God's goodness. Some things we may not understand until we are looking back on them with the perspective of eternity.
I don't know what book it is you're reading. But if it is telling you God will drop a nice house and a nice car and more money than you know what to do with and that is "provision", I'd say drop the book. I wouldn't teach that.
< Message edited by 3cappuccinosmom -- 2/20/2010 2:53:34 PM >
_____________________________
 Moo
"Yup, I'm in agreement with Maggie here on all of this" Manda, April 2010
The Ballad of Bad Biruk
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 3:44:35 PM
|
|
|
gralan
Posts: 2017
Joined: 1/29/2010
From: RV in Texas
Status: offline
|
I am sorry to see so much humanism wrapped up in Christian clothing.
Real Christians who are faithful die in accidents, starve to death, are left homeless, cannot receive medical care, etc., etc., etc.
Sometimes I think we spend too much time worrying about this world, and not remembering that its not a movie about us. This is all about God.
I am there folks. I'm under trees for cover, in a leaky old RV unable to get a substantial job, trying to keep a widow from losing her farm while she recovers from breast cancer surgery and two adults boys who are leaches.
My income is less than $700 a month, and my wife's medications for her disability run about $300 a month. Then theres food, insurance, gasoline, copays, utility bills, etc.
If I thought for one minute that this was all about me, and that God owed me something for my faith, then I'd be really discouraged.
Christianity is not some "pull yourself up by your faith-bootstraps" kind of religion that many seem to think it is.
_____________________________
suffering servant,
gralan,
BTh student TGSAT
//TrinityTheology.org/
check out:
//freecourses.trinitytheology.org/
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 5:38:05 PM
|
|
|
applemom
Posts: 76
Joined: 4/28/2005
Status: offline
|
While there is truth in the top 4 replies there is almost, perhaps not intended an attitude of being talked down to. Condesension.
I am not talking about a new pair of jeans every week and money for a hairdo, restaurant money or any form of recreational money. I am not talking about taking a 'needed' trip to some tropical paradise.
I am talking about utility money and mortgage, perhaps I havent been a great steward but after 30 years of living with a job(husbands) that doesn't deliver a regular paycheck I am pretty good at stretching and prioitizing expenditures, and keeping the mortgage paid and raising four kids on the same. So when the money dries up, the bills pile up, my questions rise up.
I wasn't even talking about myself only, but all Christians who experience a time of need.
I am talking about the kind of thing that Gralen just added, and the martyrs, and the how many Christians living below the poverty line. and please unless you have actually tried living off one of the vairous social systems don't even go there. I know a mom with one child, she literally does not get enough assistance to pay rent and buy food for herself and her son. Never mind
birthday presents, toys and other unnecessay items. She couldn't get any assistance until she sold her car, which guarantees she can't get a job as she lives in a small northern community, (no city buses)as do most Canadians.
I won't name the book because I don't want the discussion to be about her, but by no means is she name it and claim it, she has been through fire and come out the other side.
You are confusing needs and wants is cold comfort to someone who can't pay their gas bill, but oh they do have water coming out their tap so, guess its all right. I mean who needs heat?
Grelan, you are right, this is about God, not about me. My response to Him, will I only follow in times of plenty or also in times of struggle?
Thank you for reminding me.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 5:55:11 PM
|
|
|
Saved34
Posts: 867
Joined: 1/5/2006
Status: offline
|
Gralan nailed it completely.
_____________________________
2Ti 2:3 Join me in suffering like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
2Ti 2:4 No one serving in the military gets mixed up in civilian matters, for his aim is to please his commanding officer.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 10:39:54 PM
|
|
|
wawhoo73112
Posts: 114
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: applemom
The topic for this week in a study I am leading is God's provision.
I have wondered about this before and then decided that continually questioning God is a type of walking by sight rather than faith.
But it would seem God has brought me back to this question.
Now please understand I have seen God provide for me at different times.
However, at this time, there is a shortfall. I have bills overdue, no money coming. Commitments that I prayed about before committing to, that I now can't keep.
God can and does provide but there is no denying that many people do do without.
There seems to be a descrepentcy between what the Bible says God can do and what I see around me.
I am not sure how to reconcile the idea that God will provide all my needs, He knows the lilies of the field and I am of more value than 2 sparrows, yet financially my basic needs are not being met.
The study guide is soooo positive and glowing, ah God...supplies all our needs so we want for nothing.
How many Christian martyrs are there? Is what they are doing a different category somehow?
How can I teach this when at the moment I am waiting for Gods provision and not seeing it.
Tongue in cheek-Yes, I know going bankrupt may be freeing in some way, if my husband and I don't get along we may separate and yea more freedom from the bickering, but are these answers really God's first choice?
please help me sort this out.
His will be done on earth as in heaven...
There is no money in heaven, only His provision....
Do you have a roof over your head?
Do you have food to eat?
Do you have clothes to wear?
If YES is the answer, then you have His provision and your daily bread.
I am NOT being mean, but very sincere....ALL THE REST is just "extras".
All the "rest" you need to cast back upon HIM as to your provision in HIS time, and just forget about it.
Can YOU do anything without His help? Don't struggle with that, the answer is NO. So why worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will take care of itself.
Are you willing to lose everything if it is His will? Don't struggle with that one either, the answer is YES. AND, once you are willing to surrender ALL THE CARES of ALL THESE Things into His hands from your heart, you will have HIS peace...
And when you are at peace in HIM, then you can sit back and see Him perform His care and His provision....
But so long as you wrestle with trying to do it yourselves, He will wait until you decide to "be still and know HE is God".
I am not preaching, I am telling you from personal experience, and it is from my own trials that I share with you a testimony of His faithfulness, and testify again that GOD KNOWS THOSE WHO TRUST IN HIM.
Fear not, give all to Him and do not argue anymore with your mate about outcomes, but instead trust solely in God for the "outcome" of your whole life on earth with HIM...the One who holds the stars and moon in their places cares so much more for YOU!
And don't let the desire of the things of this world be where your treasures lie, for the earth and all that is in it, belong to the LORD, not to us 
But seek first the kindgom of God and His righteousness, and all these other things shall be added unto you...
Most Sincerely, Bob~
_____________________________
B  B
...Within our willing obedience, His will is worked through us...... and where His will is done.....there has His kingdom come........
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 10:58:49 PM
|
|
|
3cappuccinosmom
Posts: 3999
Joined: 4/12/2005
Status: offline
|
quote:
While there is truth in the top 4 replies there is almost, perhaps not intended an attitude of being talked down to. Condesension.
No condescension.
I've been there.
My in-laws still live in a mud hut in a country that doesn't provide even the most basic of social services. They don't even have the opportunity to deal with an annoying beaurocracy, because unlike us, they have no safety net whatsoever. Dh is over there now, actually, which means he's not working here, which means we are living on savings and spotty rentals so I'm not exactly speaking from a "high horse". Things aren't peachy for us financially either.
But God provides for our needs, because he cares for us. He provides according to his perfect understanding of what I need. Which may or may not be what I think I need. He provided for my in-laws through famine and civil war. They lost loved ones, and they suffered and been truly hungry, but they would be the first to tell you how much the God they serve cares for them, and what amazing provision they have seen over the years. That is why I suggested VOM and GFA. If you want to know how God's provision fits with martyrdom, ask a martyr.
_____________________________
Moo
"Yup, I'm in agreement with Maggie here on all of this" Manda, April 2010
The Ballad of Bad Biruk
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/20/2010 11:30:51 PM
|
|
|
Ignited-Faith
Posts: 123
Joined: 2/22/2008
Status: offline
|
I'm sorry to hear about the struggles you are having.
Remember, God will never leave you nor forsake you.
If you have the LORD on your side, you have all you will ever need.
Remember all of the times He has been faithful to help
you in the past....
He never changes. He is the same, yesterday, today and forever.
Humble yourself before Him. At the right time, He will lift you up.
No matter what,
rain or shine,
rich or poor,
sick or well,
Bless and Praise His Holy Name!
Offer up Thanks to Him for what you do have!
God is Faithful.
You will see!
Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls:
Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.
Habakkuk 3:17-19
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 2/23/2010 2:02:31 AM
|
|
|
gralan
Posts: 2017
Joined: 1/29/2010
From: RV in Texas
Status: offline
|
I think one of the reasons God doesn't just zap us out of here when we are saved, leaving behind a mini-force of spiritual green berets, is that we are to function as the Body of Christ.
A body is a wonderful creation, and it provides nurishment to its outermost parts as well as all the items that get carried in the blood for healing and etc.
This is what the body does. So when (not if) there are parts of the Body we are aware of, or should be aware of if we wake up, that are in need of fellowship, companionship, food, shelter, a part time job, a ride to medical appointments, etc., etc., etc., well...
We have a choice to be like the Good Samaritan or to be like the self-righteous hypocrites Jesus talked about.
There is no in between, and we aren't even talking about outside our own communities.
I'm currently spending time with a terminal cancer patient. She is in constant pain, even with pain killers. There are only four people I know, plus one neighbor I haven't met, who look out for this gal (she's in her 80's). Two of those come of Sundays only to bring communion to her.
She lives alone, her family doesn't visit, they only call to complain about each other or their own problems.
She and I encourage each other in the Lord. The other person who visits her is a nonbeliever, who was driven from the church by actions of a sad excuse of a pastor in a small town in a little pentacostal church who demanded that they pay their tithe to the church even if it means they cannot pay their bills.
Hmmm.
God providing? Yes, I think you can be a part of God's provision if you choose to respond in faith to the need of the Body of Christ.
Or, you can just say "Be warm and well-fed" and walk away.
Your choice.
_____________________________
suffering servant,
gralan,
BTh student TGSAT
//TrinityTheology.org/
check out:
//freecourses.trinitytheology.org/
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/10/2010 2:25:57 AM
|
|
|
gralan
Posts: 2017
Joined: 1/29/2010
From: RV in Texas
Status: offline
|
JAM1 - - But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves... if any one thinks himself to be religious yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own hear, this man's religion is worthless.
This is pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father, to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
JAM2 - - What use is it, my brethren, if a man says he has faith, but he has no works? Can that faith save him?
If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them "Go in peace, be warmed and be filled," and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that?
Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself... For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.
I'm sorry to see that this topic has ended. I was hoping to hear how this topic has moved in the hearts of some to respond with faith to the needy in their community.
< Message edited by gralan -- 3/10/2010 12:58:28 PM >
_____________________________
suffering servant,
gralan,
BTh student TGSAT
//TrinityTheology.org/
check out:
//freecourses.trinitytheology.org/
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/10/2010 10:05:19 AM
|
|
|
truthrevealed
Posts: 776
Joined: 12/6/2007
Status: offline
|
applemom, since you've told about the "need vs want" and being a good steward etc let me present a side that I've experienced. I've been as low as "food pantry" status, not having my own place to live with my family and zero money coming in when my husband "lost" his job. Not only were we trusting God, we'd trusted Him to move us into a better place prior to this but we found ourselves a lot lower (this had nothing to do with our stewardship or sin etc.) It had to do with the trials and testing that we all face as christians.
Are you a tither? If you aren't and don't believe in it fine! No debate here! but I ask that you seek God's face concerning this issue(and yes, I see that you've said you can barely pay your bills)but it would be remiss of me, knowing what God has done for me---in the same situation you find yourself in to not admonish you to diligently seek God about this act of fatih.
Whatever you decide, be assured, God is faithful!!!!!!! I've endured the tears and attacks of doubt as my family and I waited patiently on the Lord. I've experienced His comfort. I had to rely on His Word when not only was I not "seeing" what I read, I was living the polar opposite. But He hears and answers prayers. And He indeed gives us the desires of our hearts. He's a good God and gives good gifts to His children. Don't allow what you see(which is temporary cause you to doubt that God indeed gives us above and beyond what we need). Keep praying and keep trusting! You need this time to build your spiritual muscles
_____________________________
What a mighty God we serve!
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/10/2010 12:34:54 PM
|
|
|
sen10tious
Posts: 208
Joined: 4/11/2005
From: Southern US
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: applemom
The study guide is soooo positive and glowing, ah God...supplies all our needs so we want for nothing.
How many Christian martyrs are there? Is what they are doing a different category somehow?
please help me sort this out.
Get another study guide. Go study the first chapter of James instead.
I think that the usual difficulty with these questions is that we cannot see the big picture. An experience we have today can affect a decision that we will be called to make twenty years from now. Without the problem we experience this spring, we won't have the insight to make the right call next autumn.
Another thing which almost never gets talked about is that wicked people need victims. I mean, the only reason that there are martyrs is because someone else was a murderer. People you will never meet, cheating in businesses half way around the world, making discoveries or overlooking details can affect the food supply at your local grocers. Will you buy the pork ribs at $8 lb. or the mixed chops at $2 lb.? Or will you go to the Porcine Patisserie and have Stuffed Tenderloins en Croûte at $15? Martyrdom is a one-time full sacrifice, but often we are called to different degrees of lesser sacrifice over longer time. Jesus taught that those who eat high on the hog in this life won't cash in as many big dividends in the next.
Some people may argue, but heaven won't be a level playing field. Provisions are for the future. Daily bread is for today. I do think that sometimes things appear to be missing in our earthly accounts because they are being kept on deposit in heaven.
_____________________________
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/10/2010 2:37:22 PM
|
|
|
CMT8808
Posts: 820
Joined: 9/4/2009
Status: online
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: truthrevealed
applemom, since you've told about the "need vs want" and being a good steward etc let me present a side that I've experienced. I've been as low as "food pantry" status, not having my own place to live with my family and zero money coming in when my husband "lost" his job. Not only were we trusting God, we'd trusted Him to move us into a better place prior to this but we found ourselves a lot lower (this had nothing to do with our stewardship or sin etc.) It had to do with the trials and testing that we all face as christians.
Are you a tither? If you aren't and don't believe in it fine! No debate here! but I ask that you seek God's face concerning this issue(and yes, I see that you've said you can barely pay your bills)but it would be remiss of me, knowing what God has done for me---in the same situation you find yourself in to not admonish you to diligently seek God about this act of fatih.
Whatever you decide, be assured, God is faithful!!!!!!! I've endured the tears and attacks of doubt as my family and I waited patiently on the Lord. I've experienced His comfort. I had to rely on His Word when not only was I not "seeing" what I read, I was living the polar opposite. But He hears and answers prayers. And He indeed gives us the desires of our hearts. He's a good God and gives good gifts to His children. Don't allow what you see(which is temporary cause you to doubt that God indeed gives us above and beyond what we need). Keep praying and keep trusting! You need this time to build your spiritual muscles
I agree with Truth here.
Back in 1997 after a terrible divorce, I lost everything I owned including my job.
Not once was I homeless, hungry or without enough money. It took a while, but before anyone knew it I was back on my two feet.
This could not have happened on my own as I was shattered, but God proved to be not just my Provider, but also proved His Faithfulness to me!
Martyrs are people who die in their belief, like Saint Mark (the gospel of Mark) who was dragged through the streets by horses until his skin came off.
Read about the Coptic faith to learn more about Martyrisdom. Coptic is a Martyr Faith based religion
CMT
_____________________________
formerly Delete 123
Never Underestimate the Power of God
Romans 8:28, Proverb 3:5
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/12/2010 3:43:00 PM
|
|
|
GodsPrincess7
Posts: 75
Joined: 5/1/2005
Status: offline
|
Dear Applemom,
I understand what you are going through. I am, as well, going through the same thing. I have money coming in, but its already been spoken for by my bills and rent. I try every paycheck to not get down. I know the Lord has provided for me (shelter, car, my health, my job) and that although I still have (and cant afford to pay)that gas bill in which I have not paid in 2 months, I am still thankful to God.
I was in dire DIRE need a few weeks back, and after I have asked everyone I knew to help(and they couldn't) I asked the Lord for help, and my church was able to help me with 2 bills and part of my rent. They were great enough to set me up with a financial counselor and a social worker.
I know its hard, I KNOW! But, have faith!!
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/12/2010 9:33:20 PM
|
|
|
gralan
Posts: 2017
Joined: 1/29/2010
From: RV in Texas
Status: offline
|
Isn't everyone glad that we do not have hope only in this world?
I am gr8ful for I AM the way, the truth and the life.
I am glad this world is gonna burn.
I'm glad I shall be a fully new creation after He comes back.
Until then I'm glad that He gaurds our hearts and that we are sealed unto the day of our redemption.
Come Lord Jesus come.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/12/2010 10:06:17 PM
|
|
|
alwaysinjoy2000
Posts: 324
Joined: 1/25/2010
Status: offline
|
I am really moved by everyone's trust and faith in God. It's very uplifting. I have also faced difficulties over the past few months.
So many times I asked God, "Really God? Go back to school? How can I find the time? I need to work to pay expenses too!". More than a few times I wanted to give up too, it seemed impossible. Even now all I want to do, that I believe He wants of me seems impossible, but you know what, He provided exactly what I needed. No more, no less..but simply what I need! Once I stopped trying to do it myself and let God take control I have not worried about how I will get money, how I will work and go to school at the same time, how it all will happen.
I forget who mentioned about being in peace, and once you let go control of your life to God you feel peace. That is exactly how I feel. It feels good to know that I can give everything to Him and not worry. I trust God and even in difficulties I know I will face in the future, I still know He will provide.
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/12/2010 10:18:45 PM
|
|
|
gralan
Posts: 2017
Joined: 1/29/2010
From: RV in Texas
Status: offline
|
AlwaysInJoy2000,
I'm so glad to read your testimony of what the Lord is doing for you.
God's peace passes all understanding. Since I'm finite, I am glad I do not have to grasp it fully. haha
Peace in Him. Out!
|
|
|
|
|
RE: difficulty with God providing - 3/13/2010 12:47:33 AM
|
|
|
Silas_Barnaby
Posts: 163
Joined: 1/14/2010
Status: offline
|
quote:
You are confusing needs and wants is cold comfort to someone who can't pay their gas bill, but oh they do have water coming out their tap so, guess its all right. I mean who needs heat? quote:
Do you have a roof over your head?
Do you have food to eat?
Do you have clothes to wear?
....ALL THE REST is just "extras". So I guess:
- being loved by another person is a want not a need.
- being appreciated is a want, not a need.
- having a purpose in life is a want, not a need.
- having clarity and direction is a want, not a need.
- having a sense of security and/or safety is a want not a need.
Shall I go on because I can think of about a dozen more?
Frankly, I think when it comes to trying to figure out what God wants, does, doesn't do; when our own circumstances flies in the face of what we read, or like to read in the Bible...I'm convinced we've got it all wrong really don't have a clue. Its real easy to quote scripture and sound all pious when you have what looks like a dynamic prayer life, rock solid "testimony", family, friends, able to reasonably make your way in life (notice I didn't say "...without trouble"). Its only when you go through your whole adult life and realize your normal day to day life is living out everybody eles' fears of being alone, chronic poverty and disappointment, chronic indifference and rejection (and there is no indication that it will ever be different) despite the "pull yourself up by your faith-bootstraps" wisdom that you start to question the stuff you heard in first term sunday school.
1 Corinthians 3:2
I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready
Required study: The Book of Job, The Book of Ecclesiastes
_____________________________
...it is possible to be perfectly right on a superficial level, and wrong in the things that matter most in life
|
|
|
|
 New Messages |
 No New Messages |
 Hot Topic w/ New Messages |
 Hot Topic w/o New Messages |
 Locked w/ New Messages |
 Locked w/o New Messages |
|
 Post New Thread
Reply to Message
Post New Poll
Submit Vote
Delete My Own Post
Delete My Own Thread
Rate Posts |
|
|
Forum Tools
Printable Version
