Poor? Starving? No, Not Even Close

This morning we had some disappointing news from Rachael's new employer. It seems that instead of starting in one or two weeks we will have to wait until August 22 before Rachael becomes Sydney's nanny. This news hit us especially hard, since we had expected to wait a week, two at the most, but not five. It makes us worried where the fiances will come from. It makes us look in mild desperation for other souces of income. As it is, however, we are bound to the committment we've made for this job. And looking at our options, we know this is still the best route. It is a job we will learn from, and it is a rare opportunity to share the gospel.
This situation forces us to reconsider the Lord's faithfulness. He has provided abundantly thus far. When we think on how richly we are provided for, it is almost shameful that we could even begin to worry. God says in James that trials should be considered a "joy." Indeed, when our minds are cleared from the fog of sinful anxieties, we see that trials make for even better living than comfort and ease.

"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" (Colossians 3:2). It is in times of worldly detachment that heavenly blessings are most evident. Our riches are so great right now. Last night, for example, we had a brother over to the apartment. He's going to Japan soon--a land of such spiritual darkness that many people, mostly youth, are committing suicide daily. He'll be a student, but also a disciple, making the hope of Christ known. Every day he studies the language (which is sooo complicated!), reads the Word, and prepares himself in prayer. What a sweet experience it was just to talk with him about Japan and about life. In those moments with him the three of us tapped into our fellowship as Spirit-bound people, as those made one by the cord of peace and unity in the Lord. Surely the wealthiest unbeliever knows nothing of the riches we shared last night. And we have the freedom to do this every day! This is only one jewel in the vault of Christ's wealth.

I don't want to make light of our burdens and worldly needs. They are a real part of life for us all. But I do want to make heavy of God' s grace. Through Christ, nothing can separate us (not even poverty, which is not our case) from the greatest riches. We have only to look to Him and not to the world. And when we do look to him, pale is the cloud we thought so dark on our horizon.