Material Girl
God spoke to me in many ways during my trip, but the lessons I learned about need and materialism were foundational. Because I am, in so many ways, a material girl. I worry about what I wear, what car I drive, even what I serve my family for supper. But while I was there those concerns melted away and I found myself concerned—or more accurately—obsessed with following God’s will.
Looking back I know there were a lot of reasons for this dynamic shift. But the biggest reason was the overwhelming need I saw on every side. Everywhere I turned, every second of the day, I saw people with needs. I’d only been in the country for a few hours when I realized how truly powerless I was to meet anyone’s need. I knew immediately that the only way I’d be of any use at all was if God chose to use me—and He could only use me if I was focused on Him.
Coming home I’ve realized how much mental and physical energy I waste on trying to fulfill my own needs. For instance, in the past when I’ve felt down or depressed, I’ve tried to pick up my spirits with a shopping trip. And it is enjoyable—at least for a while. But the newness of what I’ve acquired wears off and the depression returns. Instead of material things, what if I’d turned to God to be uplifted and inspired? That would have brought about permanent changes, instead of fleeting happiness.
Now I’m not saying we shouldn’t ever buy things—far from it. The Bible assures us that God wants to bless us, in many ways. But if I let God be one hundred percent in charge of what I spent my money on can you imagine the things (spiritual and physical) that would follow?
- I wouldn’t have to worry about what I ate or drank, because God would be in charge.
- I wouldn’t have to worry about what I wore or how I looked because that too, would be covered by God.
- I wouldn’t even have to worry about what to do next, because His priorities would guarantee that I would have time for everything important.
