“Contemporary Americans don’t do deprivation well. That may be because we don’t do abundance well. We’re both addicted to it and embarrassed by it…”*
It doesn’t take too much to get us complaining, does it? Rising fuel and food prices, inflation, empty shelves, slower than expected delivery of consumer products -- the next thing you know, we are complaining about how tough we have it. Compared to many (if not most) in the world, we still have it pretty good. But you wouldn’t know it from the way we talk.
Perhaps Cheaney is right. Maybe the root of our problem with feeling deprived is that we haven’t learned how to handle abundance. Having plenty can lead to feelings that we somehow deserve all the blessings that God provides. And then, when the blessings aren’t quite so abundant, we begin to think that God doesn’t care or that He is angry with us. Having plenty can also foster an attitude of control over our resources that is deceptive. We think we are “owners” rather than “stewards” of God’s blessings. And when the blessings are lessened or removed, we take it personally.
When Paul communicated with the Philippian church, he was in prison. But he didn’t let that time of struggle and deprivation steal the joy he wanted to share with the believers there. What a great attitude! How could he do it? He tells us in the last chapter: “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:11-13).
We need to learn how to handle both the good and the not-so-good times. And it starts with learning contentment regardless of the circumstances.
God loves you!
Mike
*Janie B. Cheaney, “The Simple Life”, World Magazine, 12-4-21
