“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:19
I will forever be reminded of the Lord’s goodness by this picture. I love that He can use an ordinary bowl of left over noodles to speak to my heart.
A long time ago, when my kids were still little, I brought home one order of pasta for them to share. My daughter’s bowl had slightly more pasta than my son’s. He took one look at her bowl and pointed out that she had more pasta than him. I told him that he could have more if he wanted to, but that he had to finish what I gave him first.
The idea that his sister had more than him really bothered him. I could see him focusing on his sister’s plate during dinner instead of enjoying his own food. He was probably worried that he may not get his fair share. He asked me a second time if I could give him more pasta, and my answer was still the same. I could see his concern and frustration as he continued to eat his food silently.
After a few more bites, he realized he was full and unable to finish his food. Not only did he not finish what was in his bowl, but he had a significant amount of food leftover.
Of course I immediately began to use it as a teachable moment for him. As I was giving him my little sermon about God’s provision, and how He always gives us more than enough, and how we should not compare ourselves to others, God gently pointed out that this was actually a lesson for me. Comparison was something I was wrestling with at the time, and I was growing in discontentment instead of appreciating all of the blessings God had generously bestowed over my life. Caleb’s left overs perfectly captured the abundance God had poured over my life.
God is so good! So gentle and loving in His correction.
This was a beautiful reminder that His love and provision never run out. He has already provided more than enough for you too.
Your turn!
- Do you struggle with comparison?
- How often do you incorporate gratitude into your life?
- Why do you think gratitude is such a powerful weapon to fight discontentment?
- Ask God to open your eyes to all the blessings in your life.
- Make a list of all the things you are grateful for today.
Photo Credit: Samantha Evans
