" NEEDS VS. WANTS "

Good day to you,

So how have you been since our last visit? Is there anything particular that you require? As Christians our Heavenly Father has promised to meet our "needs" and to give us the desires of our heart. So a body just might ponder what else is left for man to want, one might think: "What do I want"? Another time we can dive into the desires of our heart and what that entails...

My wife was on her way out to run some errands this past Saturday morning. As usual, a tradition of hers is to ask if there's anything special that I want.... Boy does that always start my mind to racing, what a loaded question! I just love to snack on pretzels, of course, with less salt as possible. Why does she ask? Most junk food is off limits to me. This question is like a wife asking "What do you want for Supper/Dinner"? Now, most guys that I know want food that is tasty and food that will just fill us up, and nothing of any true value. Our Heavenly Father promises to meet our needs, and we can trust that our Father is an "On Time God".

Whatever we need on earth He will always supply, even if it is the courage to face death as Paul did. Whatever we need in heaven He will supply. We must remember, however, the difference between our wants and our needs. God gave us a set of rules, known as the Commandments. These Commandments are designed to lead us to a life of practical holiness. God's laws are designed to meet the needs of those who profess to love Him. These commands and guidelines were intended to direct God's people to meet the needs of each other in a responsible and loving manner. Most of us want to feel good and avoid discomfort or pain. We may not get all that we want by trusting in Christ, our outlook and palate can change from wanting everything to accepting His provision and power to live for Him.

"Need" to be in want; to have cause or occasion for; require; to be under obligation or necessity.

"Want" to fail to possess; lack; to feel or suffer the need of; to desire earnestly; wish. One more word comes to mind "Greed" acquisitive or selfish desire beyond reason.

It's very important that we think of the need of others before our want. I've tried to live my life believing that "You Can't Out Give God". So learn to be sensitive to the needs of others and we will truly grow in our faith and become totally satisfied with our provisions. Take a moment to ponder about what you want opposed to your basic need.

Until next time.

Jim