The current economic recession is stirring up a lot of discontent. Discontent can be traced all the way back to the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve had everything they needed, and and yet Satan stirred up discontent in their hearts. Though fully satisfied by God’s Presence and Provision, Satan convinced them it wasn't enough; they sinned; and immediately became “needy.”
Jesus knew about the neediness of men. When Satan tried to meet His need for hunger, Jesus responded: "Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4), and later told the Disciples, "I have meat to eat that you know not of" (John 4:32). In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said God knows all the things “you have need of,” promising that for those who seek first the kingdom of God, all these needs would be taken care of. On another occasion, Martha needed Jesus' affirmation for her good works; Mary only needed Jesus' Presence to be satisfied.
Is it wrong to want people or possessions to meet our needs? Not necessarily. But we should not expect to be fulfilled by them. People and possessions are gifts of life, not the source of life. Only when we focus on Jesus Christ as the source of life can we expect to be satisfied. As we look to persons or possessions to meet our needs, the only thing we can expect is disappointment. But as we look to Jesus to satisfy us, the greater our peace of mind and joy of heart. The current crisis many of you are experiencing is a test: will you be satisfied with Jesus Presence and Provision? Be careful: Satan will try to stir up discontent.
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