More Faith

Since finances have been on my mind this past week, I decided to fast about it.

The flow of thoughts and reflections throughout my fast included:

I've always felt that my financial circumstances (especially post-education) were very intentional. I feel like Heavenly Father specifically designed them to teach me a few things. For example, because I hope to one day give, He had to help me know how to receive. Sacrificing, humility, and provident living have all been things I've been able to experience and cultivate. I have developed even greater compassion for others, deeper gratitude for the things I've been given, and stronger roots for the branches I am sure will come. And I feel like receiving "daily bread" has ensured a continual dependence on the Lord. My Come Follow Me study from last week summarized my sentiments perfectly: Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

By the end of my fast though, I realized that what I actually want--what I actually need--is more FAITH. The finances will come. I know it! But do I have the faith to bring it? And do I have the faith to keep it?

So what started as a fast of finances ended as a fast of faith.

The funny thing is that this has become the story of my life! My pursuit of education, marriage, professional success eventually evolve into a pursuit of more faith, greater diligence, and deeper love. It's actually never been about education, marriage, or my profession--they'll come. I just know it! But like my current financial circumstances, God has carefully crafted the best learning environment to facilitate an exercise of faith, an increase in diligence, and a deepening of love.

And I'm so grateful for that!