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Trusting God for His Provisions
Devotional: Trusting God as Our Provider
John 6:60-71
In John 6:60-71, many of Jesus' disciples found His teachings difficult to accept. Following Jesus isn’t easy, and it often goes against the grain of the world’s expectations. When Jesus asked the Twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” Peter’s reply rings true for all of us who remain committed to Him: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” This passage challenges us to reflect on where our true sustenance comes from and where our trust lies—whether in worldly comforts or in God’s provision.
A Personal Testimony
When I made the decision to leave the business world to work for Word of Life, I knew the path would not be an easy one. It certainly wasn’t popular, and I knew that following Jesus wouldn’t make me wealthy. In fact, I immediately took a $30,000 pay cut. Some might see that and question the wisdom of such a decision, but for me, it was a matter of obedience and trust.
I felt I had messed up my life in many ways, and if God ever gave me the opportunity to serve Him full-time, I promised myself that money would never be the reason I turned down His call. True to His nature, God never let me go without. He faithfully provided for my needs every step of the way.
Later, God called me to pastor a church. Once again, I didn’t ask about pay. In fact, I was told I was the only candidate who hadn’t brought up the subject. Instead of worrying about salary, I trusted that God would provide just as He had before. I accepted a position making half of what other pastors in our community were earning, but God blessed me abundantly. The church grew from 75 to over 700 members, a testament not to my abilities but to God's faithfulness.
Eventually, God opened the door for me to return to Word of Life. As before, I didn’t negotiate my pay. I could have earned twice as much elsewhere, but by this point, I had learned to trust God for provision. For the last 15 years, He has met every one of my family’s needs, and I know He will continue to do so as long as I trust Him.
Trusting God Amid Financial Struggles
Does this mean I never struggle with wanting more? Not at all. I often wrestle with the desire for financial security or more resources. But in those moments, I’m reminded that when things feel bleak, it’s not because God has failed to provide, but often because I’ve mismanaged the funds He’s already given me.
God has always taken care of my needs, but He also allows me to feel the consequences of poor financial choices. He is a faithful provider, but He calls me to be a wise steward of what He gives. This balance of trusting God while taking responsibility is a continual lesson in my walk with Him.
Encouragement for Those in Ministry
If you are serving full-time in ministry, whether as a pastor or a missionary, it’s easy to fall into the trap of focusing on what you don’t have. But I encourage you to shift your focus to what God has already given you. Count the blessings He has poured into your life, and I guarantee that you will see His hand of provision in ways you may have overlooked.
When your eyes begin to wander toward the things of this world—when you start longing for what others have—remember that those desires will never be fully satisfied. The world promises many things, but only God can give you what you truly need. Keep your eyes on Him, and you will find that He is faithful to meet every need, even when it’s not in the way you expect.
Action Steps for Contentment in Ministry:
Evaluate your priorities: Are you focused on what you don't have, or are you grateful for how God has provided? Take some time to reflect on all the ways He has met your needs. List them out and give thanks.
Assess your calling: Are you truly called to where you're serving? If you're unhappy with your pay or discontent in your position, it may be time to prayerfully consider if you are where God wants you to be. Is your dissatisfaction due to your salary, or could there be deeper issues to explore?
Trust in God’s provision: Reflect on your journey in ministry and recall how God has taken care of you in the past. Whenever you face financial stress or uncertainty, bring it before God and trust that He will provide as He always has.
Steward what you have: Ask yourself if your financial difficulties come from needing more, or from mismanaging what God has already given you. Commit to being a faithful steward of the resources He’s provided, and focus on needs over wants.
Fix your eyes on Jesus: Hebrews 12:2 reminds us to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” When your focus is on Christ, worldly desires fade away. Keep looking to Him as your source of everything you need, both materially and spiritually.
Conclusion
Walking with Jesus is not popular, and it won’t make you wealthy by the world’s standards. There will be times of financial hardship and seasons where you wonder how your needs will be met. But take heart! If God has called you, He will provide for you. His provision may not always look the way you imagine, but He is faithful. In every season of your life, whether in plenty or in want, trust that God is enough. Keep your eyes fixed on Him, and He will not fail to give you everything you need.
