Gas Prices
I have caught myself complaining quite a bit at the gas pump lately. The constant rising price of oil is getting, well, crude. However, instead of reading another column griping about it let’s try to look on the bright side.
First of all, the fact I am complaining about gas prices indicates I have a car—two of them actually. This may not seem like a big deal in your neighborhood. However, on a global scale, your auto ownership makes you far wealthier than many others in the world. It also offers you a convenience and luxury rarely afforded among those in poverty. You are financially blessed—so be thankful!
Second, the price of “black gold” forces me to be a better steward. Often, we waste our money on frivolous purchases. We refuse to cut back and be thrifty because it is not necessary. Well, now it is. So, maybe we will more carefully consider using our funds wisely rather than being wasteful. Most importantly, perhaps I will start thinking more about how God wants me to use my money!
Third, higher gas prices means less driving. Less driving means I will be at home more. Quite candidly, I probably need to be there more than I usually am anyway. I need to spend more time training and talking to my kids. I need to spend more time sharing my life with my wife. I need to be at home opening the Bible with my family at night and singing and praying and playing with my kids instead of driving to and from this or that place.
I know it sounds crazy. But, maybe higher gas prices are the kick in the seat of the pants we need. God can purify His people by putting them through the fire. Maybe this extra bit of adversity will help clean out a few impurities.
Think about it.
June 2008