Rich in Faith By Mark A. Carter (Oregon)

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.   JAMES 1:12 (NIV)

With rent, utilities, medicine, food, and anything else required for day-to-day living, my wife and I often find ourselves struggling to live on our small, fixed income. We try to plan ahead to buy only what we need — to make a shopping list and stick to it. This way we know that we will have both enough to live on and enough left for the unexpected. This system works well with one major exception. Sticking to a list is hard when so much outside that list looks so good, things we really want but can’t afford. Fighting the temptation to buy on impulse is never easy; it requires discipline. As Christians we also try to live our lives with discipline. We read the Bible each day, focus on what we need, and give thanks for what we have rather than worrying over what we don’t have. Like balancing a monthly budget, practicing disciplined faith gets easier. We have learned that it’s not what we want that really matters, but what we have. Being rich in faith is priceless.

TODAY'S PRAYER   Dear Lord, help us to avoid the temptations of this world and instead to store up treasure in you. Amen.   * * *     TODAY'S READING   James 1:12-16         THOUGHT FOR THE DAY   Material things come and go, but spiritual wealth lasts forever.         PRAYER FOCUS   Those living on fixed incomes