Understanding Needs Versus Wants

If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. – 1 Timothy 6:8

Much anxiety comes about from not discerning the difference between needs versus wants. I may want a Ferrari sports car (red, please), but I don’t need one. I may also want a million dollars in the bank, but I don’t necessarily need that either. While we are to persistently and respectfully bring our requests before God in prayer, understand that you will not get everything you want in this life. But also know that God has explicitly promised to give you everything you need1 (Mat 6:8, 25–34; 7:7–11; Mar 10:18; Luk 11:11; Joh 10:10; Eph 3:20), for He is a good and loving God (Mar 10:18; Luk 18:19; 1Ti 4:4; 1Jn 4:8).2

Furthermore, sometimes we just have to accept the fact that God’s answer is “No” at certain times and for some of our requests (2Co 12:7–10). Instead of being so incredibly stubborn and obstinate, we must learn to be thankful and content with what He has provided us while continuing to trust Him in all circumstances (Php 4:10–13; 1Ti 6:6–10; Heb 13:5; cf. 2Co 12:10).3

CHAPTER PRAYER

Holy Father in heaven, thank You so much for what You provide, even when I think it’s not enough. Help me recognize the difference between what I need and what I want as I learn to trust You more every day on this matter. Thank You for providing what I need—and providing it abundantly! I come before You today by the blood of Jesus, the Christ of God. Amen.

1 → [Understanding Prayer § Ask in My Name]

2 → [Do Not Worry About Tomorrow, Seek the Things Above]

3 → [Understanding Prayer § He Hears Our Prayers]

R. John Anderson

Author and photographer R. John Anderson has journeyed the world over to capture the natural beauty of God’s creation. Having traveled to many countries and continents in a span of over thirty years, he has seen the amazing artistry that can be found in all types of locations, from the glacial fjords of polar Greenland to the wild Serengeti plains in Tanzania to the rich rain forests of Costa Rica. Nature’s greatest natural beauty often lies in the harshest deserts, remotest wilderness, and sub-zero ice-covered regions.