You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. Psalm 145:16
“The pursuit of the satisfied life comes at a cost. Around us are real people buying real things. Some of these people are our neighbors, work associates, and — I hate to break this news — your sister and brother-in-law. There could be moments when you feel as if you are losing or, more poignantly, you may feel like a loser.
My point is that we may talk about comparison in abstract terms and readily sign off, reasoning that it is a poor idea. But realize that the pursuit of the satisfied, generous life must be achieved in the midst of our consumer-driven, debt-saturated, culture. Do not think it will be a simple thing to extricate yourself from the trap of comparison.
No matter what you receive, buy, or achieve, you will soon encounter someone who has something newer, bigger, or nicer… Living by comparison will inevitably lead you to focus on what you lack rather than what you have. Fixating on the blessings withheld may cause you to despise the marvelous blessings you possess.”
Jeff Manion in Satisfied: Discovering Contentment in a World of Consumption (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2013) 77-78.
In a recent conversation, my wife shared with me that we had just gotten the payment plan sorted for the Fall semester of Sophie’s senior year at college. When I asked why it took so long, she said that the school administrator divulged that most families just click a button to agree to large school loans rather than working out a plan to pay cash for tuition and fees.
As we think about debt, our family could easily fall into the trap of comparison and justify clicking that button in order to spend like so many other parents of college students. In reading Manion today, I am remind afresh not to worry about what other families are doing and to stay the course in avoiding debt while steering clear of consumerism.
When we live within our means and prioritize giving, we marvel at how we always seem to have enough and how God also supplies resources for our generosity. When we focus not on things we might think we lack but instead focus on the blessings we have, we break out in worship and thanksgiving to God. We experience the satisfied life. Are you?