Often
we feel a conflict from the instruction we receive that tells us to
just trust in God and not in our own efforts to take care of ourselves.
It seems thought, that if we do not take care of ourselves we become
dependent on the handouts and generosity of others and we lose our
independence and our self-dignity. So what does it mean to trust in God
for all things? This instruction seems a bit counter intuitive.
Elder Paisios says the following,
When we believe in God and have trust in His fatherly providence and concern, then we do not think of ourselves; instead we know that God is aware of our needs and looks after our problems, from the simplest to the most serious one. The only things we must want is to allow God’s love and providence to function for us. When we have this kind of faith and inner disposition, we are able to see God’s miracles––God himself––who is always close to us under all circumstances. I order to experience this we must reject any form of worldly assistance or human hope, and with a pure heart, unhesitatingly and trustfully devote our mind to God. Then the grace of Christ will fill our souls at once.
But,
what about our well intended efforts to amass material wealth to
protect us in the future, our children’s education, our retirement and
so forth?
He continues,
Some people have the wrong impression, however; they think they can be involved in worldly matters and be attached to material possessions, and at the same time, expect the help of God’s providence. God’s help to people who think this way can be destructive, for it prolongs their attachment to worldly things. God helps them by letting them be exposed to temptations and difficulties; this will eventually make them loath worldly matters and totally devote their hearts to God.
I
have observed this at work at a local monastery. Three nuns came from
Greece without any money and only a small suitcase with a few
belongings. This was five years ago. Now they live on a 100 acres plot
with a beautiful chapel, a guesthouse, and a residence for four or five
nuns. They have no debts. In addition there are fully equipped
workshops, a large garden and a mini farm with animals. They pray and
work diligently giving priority to hospitality. They earn enough for
basic needs by making icons and selling religious items to those who
visit. But untold times, when cash was needed it showed up at the right
time. There was no campaign to raise money. They do not worry about
money and trust totally in the God to provide whatever they need knowing
that He provides for their needs. And He does.
I
cant say this is how I live my life as I rely on a retirement fund to
protect me in my older years. I have numerous insurance policies for
health, auto and home. Although, I have experienced as I let go of
accumulated wealth, God does provide in new ways.
A final thought from the Elder,
We must totally rely on God’s providence as this is the only way to be relieved of our anxiety and worries... To trust divine providence one must free himself from all worldly concerns and wait for God to look after him.... He must overcome his love for money and trust in it and then rest all his hopes on God and he cannot do both at the same time.
With this I struggle.
Source: Elder Paisios of the Holy Mountain, pp71-73
