We tend to have it backwards. We pray to God and it usually sounds something like this, “God, provide for me, so I can trust You.” But God says, “Trust Me. I will provide for you.” Dependency can be a scary place. We want things so we can be in charge of our own life. We want to be able to provide for ourselves and our family. Transferring our trust from God himself to our own abilities or our own bank accounts can be easily done if we’re not careful. If you have a boat in the midst of the flood, then you rely on the boat to save you. No need for someone to rescue you.

A rich young ruler comes to Jesus. He asks if Jesus has any more “rules”
for him to follow (Matt 19:16-25). Jesus simple demands: “Go sell all
you have, and give it to the poor”. Jesus’ request shakes the man. He can’t do it. He loves money too much. He loves the power money gives him. He loves not having to depend on anyone else. That is why he likes the rules. All he has to do is follow the rules. He is in control. Jesus’ command isn’t a rule. It is personal. It directly addresses his individual
addiction.

I know that many of us are excited that 2008 is over because
financially, or otherwise, it was difficult for many people. I want to challenge you to think forward and allow the Lord to be who He is. May 2009 be your time and may God Almighty show himself strong in your life!