Love and Contentment

I think the area of contentment is one where the biggest changes in my life occurred since being baptized.  I mentioned that I’m not the financial genius because of my formal schooling, rather because I’ve done stupid with zeros on it.  And why did I do such stupid things?   Partly because it was “normal” to have debt, but mostly because I was trying to fill a void.  I was very unhappy and I “needed” stuff to make me feel better.  I also used stuff to buy and maintain friendships.  Funny thing is, I didn’t accept gifts well.  I would buy up half a store trying to fill the void but couldn’t accept a gift graciously.  I simply thought I was not worthy of that.

Accepting Jesus as my personal savior meant more than asking forgiveness for my sins and accepting Him into my heart.  I had to accept that my Heavenly Father loved me enough to send His only son to die for my sins so we could be united in Heaven.  That love is so profound, so all encompassing, it didn’t seem like it could be for real.  I took a leap of faith the day I was baptized, not yet fully comprehending God’s love.  I’m not sure that I fully understand now, but He shows me everyday how He loves me.  Every day is filled with blessings.

To an outsider looking into my life right now they may have a hearty laugh at that statement.  I am dealing with some pretty serious health issues and am headed to Mayo Clinic this weekend.  I struggle with debilitating pain regularly.  I’m able to do basic tasks to manage my household but fall far short of what I would normally be capable of doing.  But God blesses me with the strength to do what needs to be done.  I am blessed and I am loved.  From that, I share hope.  At each appointment in my counseling business I get to walk with individuals and couples through their financial messes, establish goals, draft a plan (aka budget), and show them in black and white how they’re going to come out on a better side of life.  I pray with my clients when the opportunity presents itself.  I also have a habit of praying on my drive home for their situation.   I coordinate Financial Peace University throughout the year.  I pray with people when they’re having a bad day or need support.    I support causes financially as well, but the gifts are given freely with no expectation of anything in return.  I am extremely happy despite my struggles.

“For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6

It is far easier to walk the straight and narrow path to financial freedom with the wisdom of the Lord.  He will provide everything you need.  He loves you!  You don’t need a bigger house, a new car, a better spouse, or any one thing to make you happy.  Contentment is not having the things we want, but wanting the things we have.

Whatever your challenges, there is hope.  God loves you and he will see you through.  It’s not Proverbs but a different scripture I have memorized that sees me through, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”  Phillipeans 4:13.  Have a blessed week.

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Last 5 posts by Ann Anderson

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