June 15

Do you trust in God to provide for you?

Today in our reading we have an interesting story about Amaziah and his campaign against the Edomites. He hired a hundred thousand mercenaries from Israel to join him in the battle, but God said no. God wanted Judah to fight this battle alone. Realistically, it takes a great amount of courage to tell 100,000 armed soldiers to pack up their gear and leave. It also takes courage to go into a battle without 100,000 soldiers. The question Amaziah asks has nothing to do with either of these issues. He asks a financial question, “But what about the hundred talents I paid for these Israelite troops?” The prophet replied, “The Lord can give you much more than that.” To God 4 tons of silver is nothing.

A great lesson on trust and finances is found here. Many times people think they need to cut corners to get by financially. So people cheat on their taxes, pad expense accounts and are generally dishonest in their handling of money. But that is short sighted and an evidence of a lack of faith.

Many years ago Kathie and I found ourselves facing a similar test. We were living in Chicago and planning a fight back to visit our families. At the time our eldest son Jeremy was two and a half years old. The airlines had a policy that children under two would fly free. But because of our commitment to integrity, and trust in God, we paid his fare. When we had a gathering with Kathie’s father, who is an unbeliever, he was incredulous that we didn’t just lie and tell the airlines that he was under two. I will never forget Kathie’s response, “Dad, God can make up that difference so quickly. He can give us good health or have our car go without repairs for a long period of time.”

Trust God with your finances... 4 tons of silver is nothing to God.

Today is accountability day. Send me an email telling me what chapter you are on.

Looks like we have a critical mass for a gathering to celebrate our half way point to the year. We will meet at my house on Monday, June 29th 7:00. I will order pizza and have some salad for everyone. Bring your notes of praise, your God sightings, your questions for a fun evening of sharing.

So far I have “Yes” votes from Juan, Helena, Len, Dom, Jan and Ron. Everyone is invited!! Just let me know if you can attend.