[Tuesday's Devotional] - Are we satisfied? Or...

We live in an age when so much that anyone could wish for is readily available if you can afford it.  So, are we satisfied with what we have, or do we always want more?  The latest games or smartphones, a house of our own or a bigger one, a nice new car, to dine at the best restaurants?

Some people are put in the position, perhaps because of their career or circle of friends, to be expected to ‘upgrade’ what they have to maintain their present situation. To meet what would be expected of them, as it were. And it is natural that as we progress in life, in our career and in family life, that we try to improve our standard of living to the best of our ability as far as our income will allow. However, life is full of ups and downs and sometimes we have to ‘cut our cloth according to our means’ while hoping that things will improve again. At the present time, and for the last few years, many have had to cut back on life’s little luxuries. Some have had it much worse than that.

So, I pose the question – are we satisfied? Personally I have known what it is like to have a very nice house, a big car, and a good standard of living with lots of treats along the way. Now I am retired and have only fixed pensions to keep me going. Things are a bit tight and those treats are few and far between. So am I satisfied? Well I still have my dreams - a nice house in the country, able to afford some nice holidays, a decent car, money to spare at the end of the month. But I have no reason to believe that any of that will come to pass. However, God seems to make sure that I have all I actually need and manages to give me little treats along the way which are gratefully received. I am content.

So, dream on - but be grateful for what you have and trust the Lord to supply all you need.

Lord, thank you for all that I have and all that you supply me with. It is so much more than many people in the world can ever hope for. I may strive to provide better for those I love but I am satisfied with all that I have. Amen.

Jim Finch