True Strength

In the context of economical status for the follower of Christ, Paul sets precedent for us in Philippians the fourth chapter when he says: I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength. (From the NIV Version of the Bible)

What’s the point? We do not receive our strength in what we do or how well we live, but rather we receive our strength through whom we serve. How arrogant would it be of me to say that I am stronger than my brother who suffers persecution, poverty and hunger in Africa for the cause of Christ? Who is stronger: the one who is fighting for the cause of Christ and guiding souls to the Kingdom of God? Or the one who makes six figures, gives his tithe, attends weekly church activities, but has never shared his faith to a single living soul? Both are children of God, but the one has found the true secret to strength.

The “amount” we receive from our employer has very little influence, if any, on the state of our spiritual or physical well-being. The fact of the matter is: God is the One, as our good and loving Father, who provides everything to us as His children and in accordance to His will. He gives to some to care for others, and all of His children are blessed through His overflowing provision.

If we continue living as if the good we receive comes out of the good we do or the good our employers see within us, then no matter how much or how little we receive on each paycheck will ever provide us with the strength to be content in all circumstances. However, if we recognize the fact that all that we have, from our job to our home, our children, our spouse, the vehicle we drive, our church family, all that is good and all that is beneficial to us comes from the ONE who gives us strength, we will then find true strength that lasts beyond our present conditions, offering stability and contentment for a lifetime.

We do not “deserve” anything that has not been given to us by the Lord, and even then it is not because we deserve, but rather because He loves. That is a strength that cannot be found in economical well-being, because this sort of strength is the understanding that comes through wisdom. Everything is God’s to give and to take away as He sees fit and in accordance to His wisdom and understanding. As Corrie Ten Boom once said, “You must loosen your grip on the ones you love; then it won’t hurt so badly when the Lord pries them from your hands.” We have no control on future events, no matter how hard we try. However, God knows all and hides all deep within His heart. He is the one who allows suffering in the lives of His children, but He also knows the good that will come from that suffering.

As soon as I find strength in my own accomplishments, I am made weak in my arrogance. The moment I find strength in God’s accomplishments in and through me, I am made strong in His abundant blessings of overflowing grace. I may never be wealthy according to this world’s standards, but I will always possess exactly that which God chooses to entrust to me. He is God… I am His child… I find strength in that thought.