Circumstance.
At first glance, it is a bit of an odd word—until you consider its
etymology. First, take “stance,” meaning sense of position or place of
feet. “Stance” points us, ultimately, to our situation. When combined with the
prefix “circum,” we see how the full word refers to our “surrounding”
situation.
As I gain a healthier biblical perspective about God's abundance
to me, I've needed to make the transition from looking with judgment at other people’s
situations to honestly looking at my own situation before God. I need to be on
guard of the way my sinful nature has a tendency to look at other's
circumstances and make a judgment call.
When comparing God's abundance to me verses those who appear to
have so much more than me, my stance becomes jealous and creates an attitude
I'm not proud of. Quite the opposite happens when I look at the
circumstances of others who experience much less privilege than I do. Now I
feel blessed—almost prideful—
and satisfied with my circumstances. My stance becomes a bit more
entitled.
Both stances are out of line with biblical mandate. God knows my
heart, and He desires that I consider my
stance before Him alone. My sacrifice of resources should not be about
obligation or entitlement, but rather my heartfelt response of obedience and
worship.
My circumstances, and yours, don't matter as much as the fact that
God knows our hearts and He desires that we offer who we are and what we have
fully to him. Furthermore, let’s remember that God's abundance flows to all,
though circumstances vary greatly.
