I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:11-13

I have learned through the years that wealth and poverty don’t change a person’s moral character. A bad person in poverty will be a bad person and do bad things, and a bad person with money will continue to do bad things. The opposite is also true: a good person will continue to be good and do the right thing, whether he’s rich or poor.

But there’s an art to living in times of need and in times of abundance. Poverty presents its temptations: we might get desperate and forget Who has promised to meet our needs, and so we’re tempted to cheat or steal. Wealth brings its own set of temptations: when we get our eyes off of the Source of our wealth, we’re tempted to do evil and dishonorable things with that wealth.

What makes the difference isn’t the poverty or the riches, but a heart of faith that keeps my eyes on the One who strengthens me to live in whatever condition I find myself, and to remember that this life is temporary; eternity will follow.

God will take you through both times of abundant supply and times of material want in order to teach you the art of living faithfully in any situation. There are things to be learned in each one, and since He’s preparing you for eternity, training you for what comes after this life, He knows that you need to learn these lessons.

Lord, I realize that Your Law doesn’t change according to my current financial condition, or any other circumstance of my life. I know I can trust You to meet all my needs, and that I answer to You for the way I use Your blessings. Help me to be faithful, to trust and obey, whatever my situation, and to keep my eyes on eternity, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles