An Honest Answer ~ Bob Coy

And He said to them, "When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything? Luke 22:35 (NKJV)

Provision is a concept that most of us struggle with. That's because our days are spent toiling this earth in an effort to sustain ourselves (Genesis 3:19). Each dawn signals our need to work so we can make the money we'll use to purchase the necessities of life. It's a natural cycle set in motion by Adam and which still spins inside us to this day.

But while it's God's will that we be industrious and busy with our lives, we also need to understand that He is the ultimate source of our provision. We labor, but He provides the energy and ability. We make money, but He provides the opportunity for employment. We buy what we need, but He makes sure those necessities are there in the first place. Yes, we have a part to play in providing for ourselves, but God is ultimately responsible because all provision ultimately comes from Him.

And because it does, we don't need to worry about our provision when we're walking in His will for our lives. That's the case in Luke's gospel as Jesus reminds His disciples that all their needs were met when they previously went out to proclaim the message of God's Kingdom. His method of reminding them was to ask them the simple question, "Did you lack anything?" The honest answer was no; they had all they truly needed when they needed it.

It's no different for us. Looking back on our lives, was there ever an instance when we walked in God's will and lacked? Honestly, has there ever been an instance where His provision ran out once we stepped out in obedient faith? The simple question, "Did you lack?" is actually a bold banner that proudly proclaims, "Our God Provides!"

Discuss God’s perfect provision for your life. Share with your group how you have seen God’s provision for you this week. What part did your work and faith play?

Dig into Luke 22:33–36. What point is Jesus making here about the past? How does this verse speak to you about God’s provision for the work He is calling you to do? What do you now lack in order to do God’s will?

Decide as a group to lift up someone you know who is unemployed and losing hope. Intercede on his or her behalf by bringing the person to God’s mighty throne of grace!