Spiritual Poverty
We don’t need God. Yes, we may have a vague sense that we shouldn’t put our trust in wealth and possessions because they’re temporary, and that true wealth and life come from the Eternal God. We may turn to Him out of a sense of obligation, or when we face hardships and struggles. But in what tangible, consistent way do we need to rely on Him? Most of us don’t wonder how we will get our next meal or where we will sleep tonight. Food, clothing and safety are luxuries we take for granted. We don’t need Him to provide for our physical needs or security. Gary Selby sums it up in this statement made during his keynote speech at the Pepperdine Lectureship: “I don’t need God. And I don’t need you, either. I’ve got a Visa card, and I’ve got an ATM. And if my car breaks down, I’ve got AAA; and if something happens to my house, I’ve got State Farm; and if I get sick, I’ve got Blue Cross Blue Shield. And if that doesn’t cover it, I’ve got AFLAC. And I’ve got a 401(k) and an IRA; and if, God forbid, something really bad happens, I can pick up the phone and call 9-1-1.”
This security blanket we enjoy, and often take for granted, can become a barrier to trusting God. Many people turn to God as a last resort when the security blanket fails and their world falls apart around them. Does something devastating need to happen, like being diagnosed with an illness or losing a loved one, before we seek Him? What if we looked at our every-day circumstances as opportunities for us to rely on Him for strength and comfort? We all face situations that make us uncomfortable, self-conscious or frightened, like speaking in public, meeting new people or admitting our mistakes. We all deal with challenges at work, at school, at home, on the road: balancing priorities, getting along with others, controlling our tempers, staying focused and motivated, managing our time, keeping a positive attitude. We all get angry, overwhelmed and discouraged. These are “poverty of spirit” moments (to borrow a phrase from Mr. Selby). We may respond to these moments with frustration, self-pity or panic; or perhaps we ignore them or try to avoid them altogether. But instead of channeling our energy into negative emotions or behaviors, what if we used these moments as opportunities to seek God’s face? What if we invited His presence into our lives and opened ourselves up to His grace and power every day? Imagine the spiritual growth! Imagine how much our hearts, perspectives and lives would change!
God asks us to trust in Him, not as a safety net when worldly wealth and security fail us, but as an ever-present, loving Father. “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge” (Psalm 62:9). The result will be a God-centered, Spirit-filled life. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).
Jessica Adams