Being a Provider

Via TJC

“For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭ESV‬‬

One thing we like to say around TJC is we’re too often B.U.S.Y.—Busy Under Satan’s Yoke. God’s yoke is easy and light, like Jesus said, but the enemy’s? It keeps us running in circles, worn out, and distracted from what really matters.

Being busy doing nothing worthwhile is straight-up irresponsible. God made us men to tend to our purpose as Kingdom Men. He put Adam in the garden to work it and keep it before the fall ever happened, and then doubled down on that calling afterward. We just flat-out overcomplicate it. Cut the junk out of your life. Build some margin. Get away from idleness.

Deal with every excuse head-on so this can actually happen. First step in creating margin? Stop. Pray. Ask. What’s God putting on your heart right now? Quit sitting around contemplating how you can “provide” even more—get to work doing the stuff you already know you should be doing. Reading your Bible. Having real, deep quiet times. Budgeting your money. Planning your days. Tending to your own business at home first.

Stop waiting for some perfect opportune time. Stop blaming everybody else. Stop worrying about what everyone around you is up to. Yeah, all that plays a part, but you gotta focus on what you can actually control. A man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.

As a provider for 7, I’ve learned there’s nothing my family needs more from me than me actually being there. Basics are covered? Then they don’t need more stuff—they need me. Present. Playing with them. Listening to their stories. Not soaked up in work or the world. My wife wants me protecting her and the kids, and spending real time—quality time. For most of us guys today, pulling back to just be present is the hardest thing. This is where Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy. To keep our communication with God cut off! Because It takes real work, not idleness. But that’s where the good stuff happens. 

Battle Order

Ask your family members how they think you provide and reflect and course correct on the answers received.