While layoffs and cutbacks can be devastating, many times we all get our wants and needs mixed up. At those stages in our lives, we may be tempted to quit and say life is for the birds. When times are tough and you’re facing a stack of bills or some other challenge, look at what Jesus had to say about living life God’s way in Matthew 6:26 (NLT):

“Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to Him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” In this passage, Jesus is addressing two different issues. The first is that God has control over everything.

The second is our importance to Him. While many people could share how God has met their needs in a sensational way, you might feel that He is doing anything but meeting yours. But there is another way of looking at things that may bring these two seemingly opposing sides together for you.

Many times we take God’s provisions for granted, and tend to think of only the spectacular. So when we don’t get our needs met in the way we expect, we walk away. But, as my favorite pastor has said, we must look for the supernatural within the natural. In other words, do you have food in your cupboards and clothing on your back? The Bible says that we should be content with these things, but how many of us really are? I am a great example of discontentment, for I have faced struggles many times, and I’ve complained all the way through them. But looking back, I can see how God always met my needs, even at seemingly impossible times.

The Bible doesn’t stop at contentment. It also says that every good gift is from heaven. But I have often followed the example of the children of Israel, grumbling and complaining in the face of God’s provision. However, even if we don’t have everything we want, I have found that what we have is often exactly what we need.

Try to live a simpler life, and it will surprise you how many things you can do without. Regardless of how God chooses to work in various circumstances, our lives should overflow with thanksgiving, because His highest priority is to make us into his image. According to the Bible, God is love. God loves you very much, and he wants only the best for you. The things you have been craving and praying for might not be what’s best for you, according to God’s will. Think of it this way: As a child I didn’t get everything I wanted, but I did get what I needed. That is often how our heavenly Father works. Today I want you to know that even though life may sometimes try to tell you otherwise, you are very important to God. Meditating on this fact will change your life for the better.

If you have not asked God into your life, confess your sins and do so today. If you have asked Him in but have drifted away, come back and make yourself at home in the arms of his love. Instead of looking at the things you don’t have, fix your eyes on Jesus, giving thanks for everything that he and God have given you.

Thank you for reading this, and may the Lord give you a wonderful week! We are trying to reach people who are hurting, so if God lays it on your heart, please consider becoming a partner with us. If you would like to make a donation, please send it to HCMA (Healthcare Chaplains Ministry Association). Our ID number is 560. The address is 377 E. Chapman Ave., Suite 260, Placentia, CA 92870.

To find out more about HCMA, visit them at www.hcmachaplains.org.

If you have questions, comments or prayer requests for Timothy or Stephanie Burdick, please call 641-715-3900, ext.874157.