A Tremendous Return on His Investment

I have set the LORD continually before me; Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. (Psalms 16)

The shaking of the world's financial structures is causing waves of fear. We should not be surprised at the shaking and quaking of the earth. But, I felt one of those waves of fear splash by me last night as I heard questions springing up in my mind -- questions about an uncertain future. Yet, in the past, my bride and I have seen God always provide for the needs of our family of 14. And, God has promised to shake the earth and even the heavens.

Fear comes when my security or peace depends on something that can be shaken or taken. Money, health, property and relationships are all things that can be taken or destroyed. Anyone who is depending on their 401k, IRAs or job is feeling the tremors shaking the earth's financial system. Governments are desperately struggling to prop up the system. Yet, any security that appears through their efforts will only be an illusion.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal." Real security depends on the vitality of our relationship with God through Christ Jesus. Jesus promised, and he demonstrated the truth, that God will provide for those who have as their priority God's kingdom and way. "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matt 6)"

Everything we have and work for in this world came directly or indirectly from God. God owns the world and the heavens. Yet, most of the world is doing its "own thing" and does not particularly care about God's priorities. "For those who are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. - (Rom 14)" We can't do our "own thing" and also be genuinely led by the Spirit of God.

Maybe God is taking some of His IRA's and saving accounts and re-investing that money according to His priorities. Our natural tendency is to clutch our stuff in our arms and say, "Mine!" But, it's not really ours. If, in our spirits, we truly give God our savings accounts, health, houses, relationships and our whole life then we will have peace and security. Even if God takes those things and uses them in unexpected ways, we will praise Him. We will be led by His Spirit, see His marvelous works, and experience His provision. And, God will see a tremendous return on His investment.

"Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name?
For You alone are holy;
For all the nations will come and worship before you,
for your righteous acts have been revealed." (Revelation 15)