Content with the Lord's Provision

Scripture: The crowd asked him, “Then what are we supposed to do?” “If you have two coats, give one away,” he said. “Do the same with your food.” Tax men also came to be baptized and said, “Teacher, what should we do?” He told them, “No more extortion—collect only what is required by law.” Soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He told them, “No harassment, no blackmail—and be content with your rations.” Luke 3:10-14

Observation: John is baptizing many, and he is very direct with his words. He rebukes those who are getting baptized simply because it is 'trendy' to do so, clarifying they need to be pursuing a new, cleansed life. When they ask what that life looks like, he answers, and his instructions sound like ... simply living a good and humble life ... a life content with the Lord's provision. Share your excess blessings with others, don't cheat and swindle others in order to get more, and don't be mean to others simply because you can be due to your position in life.

This is the cleansed, changed life ... receiving your 'daily bread' from the Lord, and being humble about it.

Application: I have so very, very much in life, more than I need for sure. And yes, I enjoy it, but I do try to give much of it away as well. I should consider doing more of that.

At the same time, I still try to "get away" with things in life. I sin when I know I shouldn't and I am lazy in my work instead of giving my full effort. These are not humble acts, but rather the acts of a person who simply thinks I can get away with certain things. As I do these things, I suffer, and I fail to live the full life the Lord would have for me.

May I be content with the Lord's provision, and also live in a humble manner, seeking and doing his will.

Prayer: Lord, again I say this morning, please forgive me for my sins. In my mind and actions, I fail to behave and think as you would have me do. May I repent of these things, and turn toward these better instructions, to live a life of generosity, giving away from the abundance you have given me, and being honest and kind in all dealings. Amen.