Trusting God in Times of Lack and Plenty

After graduating from college during an economic recession, I faced financial difficulties. Finding a job was difficult for many, even for me as a new college graduate. The news headlines encouraged hopelessness and fear as the economy continually plummeted and gas prices soared. Even as I went through hard times, my trust and dependence on God grew.

Maybe you are facing similar circumstances in your life. Perhaps the bills are piling up, the job search feels discouraging, or the future looks uncertain. I remember what it felt like to wonder how everything would work out while trying to hold on to faith. If that is where you are today, please know you are not alone, and God has not forgotten you.

A year after my graduation, my finances completely changed. I had steady employment, a home, food, and enough money for every need. During those times, I learned that contentment stems not from having everything figured out, but from knowing the One who provides. Through the time I had lack and the time I had plenty, God taught me that peace and contentment cannot be purchased. I could trust Him no matter what I had or did not have.

Paul’s words in Philippians 4:11 speak to me because they remind me that contentment does not always come naturally; it is something we learn as we walk with God. He says, I don't say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself (CSB).

My contentment was based on my trust in God and the plan He gave me to move ahead as a young adult. Whether I was hungry or full, I knew God was my source.

Even in my current season of life, when I no longer carry the same concerns about basic needs, I still need to rely on God while having enough. Contentment is not only something we learn when we have little; it is something we must continue practicing when we have enough. Having plenty creates opportunities to give, serve, and remember that every provision still comes from Him.

Philippians 4:12 says, I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need.

Because I have walked through seasons of lack, I can have more compassion for others who are facing uncertainty. Maybe you are in a season like that right now, unsure of how God will provide or when things will change. I want to encourage you that your current circumstances are not the end of your story.

I am not where I want to be, but I am not where I used to be. You may feel the same way. No matter what season we are in, whether we have lack or plenty, we can face it because of Jesus.

Philippians 4:13 says, I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.

That does not mean life will always be easy, but it does mean Christ gives us the strength to trust God in every circumstance. Whether we have plenty or very little, we can keep our faith in Him because He is the One who strengthens us.

Let’s pray.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of Your Word. Whether I have plenty or lack, I ask for Your contentment even while striving for better. Help me to trust You and remember I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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Scripture is taken from The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.