Enough

Millard Fuller, the founder of Habitat for Humanity, advocated “enough” as a biblical standard of living.

The formative revelation for living with enough is God’s provision of manna, with the instruction: “The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day" (Ex. 16:4).

Proverbs picks up the theme in a prayer: “give me only my daily bread" (30:8 ESV). Jesus includes this phrase in a prayer for disciples: “Give us this day our daily bread" (Mt. 6:11).

When Jesus sends out disciples to preach, his instructions are radically minimalist: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts" (Mk. 6:8).

We can dare such things because our Heavenly Father meets our needs. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Mt. 6:33).

With needs met, we can live generously. “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2 Cor. 9:6-15).

We can be content with full confidence in God. “And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:10-20; 1 Tim. 6:6-10; Heb. 13:5-6).

Taking God at his (sure and recurring) word, we can intentionally live simply—free to love boldly, give generously, and serve joyfully.