“²⁹ And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be of anxious mind. ³⁰ For all the nations of the world seek these things; and your Father knows that you need them. ³¹ Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things shall be yours as well.” Luke 12:30-31

Jan Smith – May 26, 2008

Heading home from work recently, I winced as I glanced at the gas gauge. The car wasn’t quite running on fumes yet, but I couldn’t put off the inevitable any longer.

But the price… WOW! It nearly took my breath away. Didn’t I used to be able to fill my tank with the money I was about to pay per gallon.

Suddenly, God showed me how to put it into the proper perspective.

When we worry or get angry about things like the price of gasoline, are we not failing to trust God to provide for us? Thoughts such as, “If I spend that much on gasoline, I won’t have enough left for <whatever>” are really statements of distrust in God.

My life isn’t about me getting everything I want. It’s about surrendering everything to Him–including my right to complain–and trusting that He will supply all my genuine needs. We say to God, “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). But if we whine about how much gasoline costs, do we not betray our unbelief in a God who provides?

I can imagine someone arguing that the big oil companies are engaging in profiteering.  They are using circumstances to justify gouging consumers, making us pay sky-high gas prices while they get rich. You may be right. But God warns us not to expect justice in this life. Instead, we must learn to trust Him for our needs, and let Him balance the books.

I realize I will never have all the “stuff” I could possibly want. I don’t care. I’m just a visitor here anyway. My knowledge and application of Biblical principles has given me a supernatural peace and joy that overrides difficult circumstances.

“Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Matthew 6:8

I really, honestly believe that. I’ll take that over cheap gasoline any day!