Do You Want Too Much Right Now? - The Christian Online Magazine

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to get along
happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost
nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of contentment in
every situation, whether it be a full stomach or hunger, plenty or
want; for I can do everything God asks me to with the help of Christ who
gives me strength and power." Philippians 4:11-13

DO YOU WANT TOO MUCH, RIGHT NOW?

Paul is speaking to the Philippians here and I think we all can take a
lesson from this verse.

As the soft scented breeze of a beautiful spring day flowed in through
my open window, joy filled my soul. My sweet kitty lay upon my desk
enjoying the breeze and watching the birds with me, all was calm and
serene.

Stroking his soft coat of fur I reminded myself how very blessed I
really am by the simple pleasures in life I enjoy. Listening to the
soothing sound of my kitty purr, drinking in the deep scented aroma of
the flowers beneath my window, listening to the song of the birds
flying around my trees and watching as the gentle butterflies flutter about my
bushes, yes, oh yes, I am blessed.

However, this contentment is not always with me. I want to so much so
soon. I mean when I want something, I want it NOW!

I am an "empty-nester," I am unhappy with my life, I am unhappy with my
body, and I am just an "unhappy camper," right now.

I need this and I need that to make me happy, or so I think.

It takes these moments of simple reflection to bring me back to focus
on what is important in life. What IS important is that first, I listen to
the Holy Spirit's nudging in my life. I need to pray to God and be very
thankful for what He does send me. For really, He sends me what I need,
when I need it, so I just need to be watchful and trust in Him.

As I drive about my town and see all the beautiful homes, I ponder,
"What do some of these folks do to do make a living to live in such
places?" Then, I also see the less beautiful, simple abodes and think
to myself, "I wonder who is really the happier?"

One does not need to live in a palace and one does not need four or
five cars sitting in the driveway to be happy. Some folks are just merely,
"more fortunate" in man's world, in "material items," then others. That
does not make one happier or more sad. That is just life.

AND just because we do not have such great things in our lives, does
not mean we need to covet what others may have in their lives.

There are those of us who ponder at life's situations and there is only
one answer. God knows all, plans all, and gives us what we need when we
need it. We just need to have the wisdom and trust Him enough to pray
to Him and study His ways in order to listen effectively.

Therefore, the next time you feel you have to "have that thing," right
now, stop and think about "what might be God's plan for you." You know
you can just sit down and have a little visit with HIM, in prayer.

I know I do not always ask God to direct my life, because I think I can
do it ok by myself. Oh foolish person that I am. He brings me to the
realization that I truly do need Him in my life. I then, also, remember
our Lord and Savior, you know the Son God sent to be our strength and
power?

Dear Father, help me not to be so selfish that I want all my desires
granted right now. Help me to focus on "listening" to what You want me
to have, what you want me to do, and help me have enough faith to
follow You. Guide me, also, please, in sharing the abundance I have with those
brothers and sisters of mine who may not have what I have. W are all
Your children, help me to be worthy to call You, "our Father in
Heaven." In Jesus name, I pray. Amen