If a genie gave you three wishes, what would you wish for? In most poles, the average American answers this question the exact same way: 1. A million dollars 2. Lifelong happiness 3. More wishes. The only part of this answer that’s likely to have changed in the last 50 years is the amount of money. People expect more today. The saddest thing about these answers is that the vast majority of people, if they actually received these wishes, would be miserable—even bankrupt. Consider professional football players in the National Football League. Sports Illustrated estimates that 78 percent of NFL players are bankrupt or facing serious financial stress within two years of ending their playing careers. The average NFL player makes nearly $2mm per year. You would think these guys would have it made; money, happiness and anything they wished for. Fame and fortune do not make one complete. It’s more like a recipe for an American nightmare rather than an American dream. The truth is, most of us could not handle what we wish for.
The scripture passage in Philippians 4:10-23 deals with the attitude of contentment. It’s actually a really simple principal. The entire chapter is best summed up in verses 11-13,
“I have learned to be content no matter what happens to me. I know what it's like not to have what I need. I also know what it's like to have more than I need. I have learned the secret of being content no matter what happens. I am content whether I am well fed or hungry. I am content whether I have more than enough or not enough. I can do everything by the power of Christ. He gives me strength.”
Think of how well off we would be if we faithfully followed Paul’s advice. The principles of stewardship are principles in which to live—an attitude of contentment. God’s plan for stewardship produces an attitude of giving. The one who gives ultimately receives. The world’s plan for stewardship produces an attitude of receiving. The one who receives never has enough.
If you want to wish for something big, wish for complete trust in The One who provides all things for our spiritual and physical needs. Then, give Him the glory when He grants it.