Purpose Study Bible 4: Our Provision

After the Lord gave us purpose, He then promised to meet our every need:

Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so (Genesis 1:29-30).

Notice that God did not say we would work for our food. Instead, He assigned us work but then promised to give us our food. That means our food and provision are gifts and not wages. This flies in the face of culture that says we must work and get paid by an employer. Instead, God directs us to do His work and He promises to pay us.

That frees us from doing things simply for the money so we can pursue our individual purpose, trusting God for what we need. Jesus reiterated this promise when He directed us to "seek first His kingdom" and all that we need—food, clothing, shelter, transportation—would be provided for us (see Matthew 6:33). 

Are you a slave to your work because that is the only way you believe God can provide for you? Do you see that your income is a gift from God and not the result of your work contract? Do you see that this means God is your provider and not your employer? Armed with this truth, what adjustments can you make in your thinking and then in your approach to work and the provision you need for life?