The other day my bible study leader mentioned that she attended a lavish wedding reception in one of the oldest and most expensive country clubs in our city. As she looked around her, she saw diamonds and designer gowns all around her. Just as a hint of envy threatens to envelope her, she quickly gave thanks to God for keeping her on manna economy.
You see, those whom God keeps on manna economy gather only food for the day. Any extra gathered would not keep. The only exception being manna gathered on the day before Sabbath, that would keep for two days. That way no one needs to work on the Sabbath. I chose not to think of that as poverty, rather it is a way of living that is totally dependent on God as well as being daily mindful of God's providence and faithfulness. One is forced to be dependent on God and God only. A person privileged to live on manna economy could not be arrogant.
My bible study leader brought up five children and home schooled them. She held a secular job and after her retirement she served a term as missionary in Africa. She is a member of a indigenous group in the hills in Borneo. She is also one of the first of her tribe to matriculate and graduate in the nation's early universities. Granted that her goal has always been to serve God whether at home, in the office and at church, she had not focused on filling her barns with worldly goods. What I was particularly impressed with is the fact that there has never been a television in their house, whether when the children were growing up or now that the children are all grown.
Another thing of note is that they are rich in hospitality. They may not own much cash in the bank, but they are rich in God and rich in friends. Many are the times that I fellowship over a delicious lunch after our study and prayers. May God multiply their health and their years so that they can continue to be active and serving.
No comments:
Post a Comment