Don't worry?

Doesn't God say that He will provide? Why should we save for retirement? In the Gospel of Matthew there are several verses like: "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'

If I am a Christian, does that mean I should not prepare for retirement? Or even education for my children? The parable of the wealthy man whose harvest was so large he built another barn to store it comes to mind. But he was called a fool.

The book of Proverbs is full of descriptions of wise men. Proverbs 13:22: "A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children..." Of course an inheritance is not limited to just $. It can include a good name and faith shared.

Proverbs 21:20: "In the house of the wise are stores of choice foods and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has." This is a good argument for budgeting and not spending it all.

Proverbs 30:25: "Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer." There are other verses that tell of storing up for another season. It implies planning for the future.

I conclude it should all be in moderation. To be wise, we have a plan. To horde, is a waste. Abundance should be used wisely. God wants us to enjoy giving unto Him.

We need a plan yet not be selfish. Is God glorified in what we do with our wealth?

'til later