I’ve been in Belize for one day now. Belize is a new country, only gaining independence in 1981, and it is considered a third world country. A drive around will show you houses that are made from random materials, missing windows and doors, yet they seem to have wifi and flat screens. It is odd to look into a shack and see a 40″ Samsung hanging on the wall.
My first reaction was that this was a poverty spirit in action. It would fit the bill, but I don’t know if that is it, really. I think it is something else, something we deal with in America as well. I don’t even really know what to call it other than a spirit that wants. And it is insatiable.
“I want.” That seems to be its rallying cry. It pushes people to waste their resources on things that only create more want.
Paul tells us in Philippians 4:11-12 “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for 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.”
Can you be satisfied with what you have? Even if it isn’t as much as your neighbor has? And for me, something even more impactful, is Jesus enough? Imagine the rejection of giving your life for humanity and knowing that there are people all over the world who still think that you aren’t enough.
If I am honest, I have been guilty of that. There are times when I revert to a mindset that says, “He isn’t enough.” I know sometimes I act like that. God help me. God help us.
Paul ends that section with a beautiful phrase we all know: v13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.”
Would you ask yourself a simple question? Is Jesus enough? The way we defeat a spirit of want is to be content in knowing Jesus is all we need.
Phil 4:19 And God will supply all of your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Be blessed
J