I Have Everything I Need

(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)

Take just a moment to walk through a simple exercise. Look at the receipts of everything you’ve ordered online over the past month. If possible, also look at receipts from other local stores. What all did you purchase? Now consider this, how much of it did you actually need?  

To be sure, you’re not an evil person if you bought a few things you wanted but didn’t need. You may not have needed ice cream at the grocery store, but that’s OK. You may not have needed a new pair of running shoes, but your feet will be happy to have some comfort. 

While purchasing items that are wants and not needs isn’t always a bad thing, it is quite possible that subtle thoughts can creep in which lead you believe that something you want is more than that. These thoughts lead you to believe that it’s a need. That your life will be so much better, so much more complete if you would just click on the “But it Now” link.

Those who have chosen to follow the path of Jesus must recognize that thoughts such as these do not come from God. He says, You have everything you need in Me. Don’t look to the comforts of this world. Find real peace here, in Me.

READING & PRAYERS:

     MATTHEW 8:18-22 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: In what, or in who, do you look to find peace and comfort? Write down the first three things that come to mind.

DIGGING DEEPER: Consider writing out your own prayer to God. Focus on Him being your peace and comfort. 

Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, it is very easy for me to justify much of what I buy because everything is something I will use, at least for a little while. But when I think about everything I currently own, it’s just as easy for me to see that I have purchased things which I will rarely, if ever, use. It seems clear that I have bought stuff simply because I believed the lie that I needed it or that it will make my life better. Moving forward, continue to help me see that I have everything I need in You. You are my full peace and comfort, and I will not find it anywhere else. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)