The Phil Files

How are we doing to do it? We’re running so far behind our budget, what are we going to do? Could it just be a summer slump, or has the economy really set in and we are going to be dealing with this a long time? With all the increase in federal spending, what are we going to do to compensate with the great reduction in taxes going to the federal government?

These are all real questions I have heard the last three days — I am away studying and out of the busy places my life often takes me! Some of the questions have been asked by family and friends. Others I have overheard in restaurants. Others were found in newspapers. Some have been asked about churches, others about families, others about government agencies, and still others by business folks worried about the hidden time bombs in our economy — increasing deficits, tighter budgets, more rounds of defaulting on loans.

If we want, we can sure get pessimistic and fearful! So let’s pray the Lord’s prayer and then read the echo of one clear principle that Jesus gives us a few verses later:

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.

For yours is the kingdom and the power
and the glory forever. Amen.

Yes, I believe I am to be responsible and have some plans for the future, especially plans that involve living and serving the Lord. But I must not let my fear create anxiety for the provision only the Lord can supply. So let’s pray, “Give us today!” while we remember the Lord’s call to stay in today and not worry about tomorrow:

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:33-34 TNIV).