What If I Don’t Have Enough?

It’s a deep-seated fear.

We may not say it out loud, but it runs through our minds with amazing regularity. We often ask it regarding time or talent or experience. But the fear that lurks on a deeper level involves our resources.

Of course, we’re not the first. The Apostle Paul encouraged the early Christians in Philippi who were also worried about having enough.    

“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:18 (NLT)

Have you ever had to trust God to supply your need? 

On My Own

Years ago, my parents helped to put me through college. But when I sensed a call to ministry, that meant 4 more years of study, and I knew I was on my own.

I applied for as much financial aid as possible, worked all through seminary, and took out more loans. By the time I reached the second semester of my final year, I was completely tapped out. 

I remember the day I received a bill from the school that had to be paid to graduate, and I didn’t have the money. Perhaps you know that sinking feeling. I had already asked some friends for personal loans, but asking other young pastors for a loan was like trying to get a cat to bark. Even if you got it, it wouldn’t amount to much. (On a side note, I learned it is always best to borrow from pessimists. They don’t expect it back.)

Desperate

With loans up to my eyeballs and my parents responsible for three more kids to put through college, I didn’t know where to turn. I was desperate.

In a last-ditch effort, I went to the financial aid officer of the seminary and pleaded my case. I told him the whole story and how much I would like to graduate. Finally, I said, ”I don’t know what else to do. Is there any way you can help me?” 

Without a hint of hope, he replied, “Let me take a look.” He shuffled through some papers and in a deliberate tone said, “It appears there is some money in a denominational student fund. I will grant you $1,000.”

For a moment, I sat in stunned silence. “You will?” I said. It was too good to be true. That was exactly what I needed to pay my bill and graduate! I thanked him profusely and nearly floated out of the room. Of course, that amount may not seem like much now, but to a guy who had less than nothing, it felt like a million dollars.  

Trusted

Here’s what that experience taught me as a young adult. God can be trusted. God will provide in ways that we cannot see or imagine right now.

Deep down, I knew I didn’t head off to seminary on my own. I was led to do that. But that incident was a huge confirmation. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one that wanted me to graduate. God cared about that, too.

Where God Guides…

What the Holy Spirit impressed upon me that day was a profound truth that God’s people have long known: Where God guides, God provides.

Since then, I’ve seen God’s provision play out countless times in my life and others. Our God is a provider who loves to supply the needs of God’s children. Our job is simply to ask, do our part, and trust God for the rest.  

An Excerpt from Roger’s upcoming book on Discipleship coming May 2025.

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