We all like comfort, pay more for extra comfort, which is sometimes justified, and upgrade things for that additional feature or amenity. Regarding meals prepared, some cultures go with 10 to 20 dishes for a single special dinner.
By default, humans have a desire for comfort. Then we see many people worldwide who sacrifice the comforts to be a blessing for others, and others endure difficult conditions not by choice.
When I traveled, I found many who do not live in comfort. Our bodies adapt to situations, and we get adjusted very soon. When I left my home for a trip, the temperature was 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and when I reached my destination, it was about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It took me a few days to adjust, but I was fine afterward.
There are situations when people have to go through circumstances that are forced upon them. Below is a picture from a refugee camp in Africa where thousands of displaced people live without basic amenities. They did not do anything wrong, but due to fight between different groups had to run to save their life. Some little children go around to fetch something to eat.
Many times we need to realize what we have. We complained that the food could have been more tasty or had fewer options at a buffet. We are bored eating from a place and want more than we have. We want more of the things in this world without considering what is happening around the world. As I write this, we are aware of millions of people displaced due to different circumstances.
I recently read about a man who came to faith in a restricted country and was arrested. He was sent to a prison in a hot desert. They tried to break his faith by giving him minimum food and maximum discomfort. He did not lose his faith but stood firm in those circumstances.
At times I see arrogance and an entitlement mentality in people. They fight and argue over silly matters and are not content with things in life. The Bible teaches us that true godliness with contentment is a great wealth.
6 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 7 After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 8 So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content. (1 Tim. 6:6-8, NLT)
I’d like to give some practical pointers about what I have been thinking recently.
If you have a house to stay, do not complain about the size or things inside. Be thankful you have a place to stay when many are homeless and sleep on the street. Many had to run away from their own homes to save their life.
Please don't compare your vehicle with others and complain that you have a less expensive or old one. Be thankful that you have something for transportation. Recently I attended a meeting where some people walked 10-12 kilometers to reach, and they walked back the same distance to return home.
If you have enough to eat, do not complain about less variety. Many go hungry each day or can only afford to eat once daily.
If you have a family, do not constantly complain about character flaws, relationship issues, and brokenness. Be thankful, as many orphans and people wish they had someone they could call their own.
If you have a church or a community, do not complain and spend energy fighting over petty issues. Be thankful, as many people worldwide cannot gather together due to persecution.
It's essential to appreciate what you have without complaining. Instead of focusing on the negatives, be grateful for what you have. Sometimes we have to count our blessings to be surprised about what we have. Even in maximum discomfort, we can be content.
✍️Quote of this edition
“One of the greatest fallacies of our faith, and one of the greatest acts of unbelief, is the thought that our spiritual acts and virtues need to be advertised to be known. The frantic efforts of religious personages and groups to advertise and certify themselves is a stunning revelation of their lack of substance and faith.” - Dallas Willard
📔My Health/Personal Update
Thank you for your continued prayers for my complete recovery. Lab results are stable, and medication has been reduced. The next few months are critical as medication tapering happens. I am also preparing for some travel during the summer.
Once again, I want to thank everyone who has not given up but continues to pray for me.
