So how do you see the world today?
Do you see destruction and violence is everywhere? Are you surrounded by people who love to argue and fight? Has the law become paralyzed, and there is no justice in the courts? Do the wicked outnumber the righteous, so that justice has become perverted? Is it your view that the rich have become proud, trusting in themselves, and their lives have become twisted? Do they build big houses with money gained dishonestly, and believe their wealth will buy them security?
Or are you filled with awe by God’s amazing works, and remember that in times past He helped you and believe that He will do so again. Do you shout it out for all to hear, “Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength!”
Just as you cannot understand the path of the wind or the mystery of a tiny baby growing in its mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the activity of God, who does all things well. Remember that we must give an account to God for everything we do. So refuse to worry, keep your body healthy, and remember words from the wise are like cattle prods; painful but helpful.
So use your worldly resources to benefit others for the Lord’s sake. If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in greater things. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, God will not trust you with the true riches of heaven? Remember that God knows your heart. Remember that what this world honors is detestable in His sight.