by Gena Suarez
What do you think about God’s provision? When comparing it to the way you and your husband provide for your own children, does it measure up?
It is very easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “Where is God? Why won’t He provide?” when in actuality, you may be asking for what you already have. He gives us enough.
I know I have fallen into that trap. I spoil my children sometimes, giving them far more than they truly need. During holidays or their birthdays, we go overboard at times. Here we are, going into the Christmas season. I need to remember balance. Or sometimes their extended family members and friends pour on the gifts. We grow to think that’s normal, and it becomes the expectation. Not only do our children start wanting more and more, but we too amplify our views on what we should have as the norm.
God doesn’t work that way. For the Christian, this life is full of trials. It’s a testing ground, a training period. What we do here and now determines what we’ll be doing after this life is up, during Eternity. When we struggle or endure difficulties, we are able to see our own responses and can judge (and improve) our character. A hardship allows us to cling more tightly to Christ, to recognize that He is the only Way, and our hope.
For the Christian, this life is also full of happiness and God’s generosity. He gives far more than we ever could! Think about how He has blessed you over the last month and year. Look at your past, since you have come to Christ. Have you not been well taken care of? He is so faithful.
So it truly is a balance, Mama. It’s easy to fall into envy, wishing we could have more days off for travel, nicer furniture, or a better car. You may have a friend who gets to go out to eat all the time, or who is planning an extravagant Christmas party, but those things are not in your budget. Or you may have a pile of bills that are running late, or the rent is due and you are short. God will provide. He always does. Be content in His kindness towards you.
Take great joy in your salvation. Keep the perspective that this life is short and your children are watching you. When they are grown and facing their own trials, will they remember how their Mama handled hers? With grace, great faith, patience, and full of joy, their Mama lived out her faith. She knew where her hope was: in her Father, who never failed. She was greatly cherished. He was her Provider.
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Love, Gena
About Gena
Publishers, Paul and Gena Suarez, who reside in eastern Tennessee, have homeschooled their seven children since 1990. They embrace and promote the Biblical philosophy that “homeschooling” is not so much about schooling/education, as it is about discipleship— bringing up our children “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6: 4). The Suarez family wishes to share this vision around the world as they publish the trade magazine for homeschool families, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine. They can be reached at [email protected].
Copyright 2019, The Old Schoolhouse®. Used with permission. All rights reserved by the Author. Originally appeared in the Fall 2019 issue of The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, the trade publication for homeschool moms. Read The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine free at www.TOSMagazine.com, or download the free reader apps at www.TOSApps.com for mobile devices. Read the STORY of The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine and how it came to be.