Your confidence in the Lord’s provision is a precious thing, but see that it is the confidence of a soul wide awake, not the boldness of one who slumbers in a dream. You give thanks before the victory is seen, this is indeed the fruit of faith, much like the woman who cried, “Help me,” and would not be turned away. Yet she came with a holy shamelessness born of humility, not of presumption. The word that tells you not to worry about tomorrow is the same that commands you to seek first the kingdom, and to hold fast the rejoicing of your hope firm to the end.
Do not, then, make provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts, even by a confidence that becomes careless. Your travel funds and housing are matters of necessity, and the Lord knows your need; but while you stand on that promise as on two feet, walk the narrow way with a sober fear. The precipice is on either side. For if you grow confident in the victory before it comes, take heed lest you drift into a sleep in which you dream that you are rich, and wake to find your hands empty.
Let your confidence be always joined to Christ your Guide, and let it kindle gratitude, not idleness. For it is by grace that all these things are given, not as a wage you have earned. Share your hope with those of like faith, that comfort may flow from mutual trust, and remember: we are God’s house only if we hold fast our confidence unashamed to the end. Stand, then, and give thanks, but watch.
A little slumber, and the soul is swept away.