trust fund
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord." —Jeremiah 17:7
If we trust in the Lord, we are blessed. If we trust in ourselves, others, or anything else, we are cursed (Jer 17:5). The one who is cursed "is like a barren bush in the desert that enjoys no change of season, but stands in a lava waste, a salt and empty earth" (Jer 17:6). For example, the rich man in today's Gospel reading trusted in himself, his wealth, and his pleasurable lifestyle. Thus, he cursed himself forever and was "tortured in these flames" (Lk 16:24).
Trusting in the Lord is the meaning of life. Therefore, "trust in the Lord and do good" (Ps 37:3). "Commit to the Lord your way; trust in Him, and He will act" (Ps 37:5). "Trust in Him at all times, O my people! Pour out your hearts before Him" (Ps 62:9). "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence rely not" (Prv 3:5).
Ironically, the meaning of life is expressed on the currency of the U.S.A. by the motto, "In God we trust." Beginning this Lent, ask the Holy Spirit to remind you that when you use money, pray for an ever greater trust in the Lord. When you pay in cash, pray to trust in the Lord.
Prayer: Father, lead me to a new level of trust in You.
Promise: "More tortuous than all else is the human heart, beyond remedy; who can understand it? I, the Lord, alone probe the mind and test the heart." —Jer 17:9-10
Praise: Jim left his Bible at work. He was so upset that he made the long drive back to work that night so he could have his Bible.
Reference: (People of God, the Lord is calling you to a lifestyle that will lead you out of this world and prepare you to enter the next one. Plan to attend, and bring a friend to, the Lifestyle in the Spirit retreat April 12-14. Call 513-373-2397, e-mail retreats@presentationministries.com or see our website for more information.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 24, 2018
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