WHEN DO WE HAVE ENOUGH?

I have found over the years that this is a very interesting question…with many interesting answers. Some say they can never have enough, some say enough to cover expenses and a little for pleasure. Both good answers. But what comes to my mind is, what does God think is enough? I don’t know if He is really definitive but He certainly makes suggestions, usually by illustrations. I personally like Matthew 6:19 to the end of the chapter…God first tells us not to “lay up” treasure here on earth” (don’t accumulate much wealth) but “lay up” in Heaven, send it on ahead so to speak by using your money for the good of the Kingdom. The problem seems to be how and when we determine we have enough and decide to do for the Kingdom with what’s left! In general, it is just not part of our thinking processes to give what we have away. It does not come easily, takes a commitment to God and a lot of practice. I know, because my last 35 years have been lived that way. It has been an adventure let me tell you. Prior to turning my life over to the Lord I had many years of living well, VERY well. My husband and I did everything there was to do. But, everything changed when I became a committed Christian, I was never the same again and I am very glad. God took me in hand and began to teach me “how much is enough”…I willingly gave Him all I had, it wasn’t easy and I had a lot of questions. The last part of chapter 6 began to impact my soul and thinking processes. Over the next 10-15 years I was amazed at how God took what I had given Him and used it for His glory. He taught me what was valuable and what wasn’t. He taught me to wait…very hard for me. But, I never lacked anything I needed, did lack some of what I wanted and usually had to wait for what He had for me. I am not unusual, He will do the same for you. Enough? He will gladly show you what enough is for you, and He will expect you to give Him what is leftover. Many missionaries go with out necessities that could be met with very little, but someone has to be willing to give that little, how about you? Do you know an area of need you can meet and still have enough for yourself? Probably…try it and be amazed at how wonderful God is when you give yourself over to Him.