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Great is Thy Faithfulness 7/9


Great is Thy Faithfulness 
by Larry Burkett

July 9

Watching in Vain

Micah
"Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain" (Psalm 127:1).

Many years ago I was given the responsibility for the security and safekeeping of the facilities of a Christian college. It was then I learned an extremely valuable lesson about the practical application of God's Word.

The cost of providing security for the college facilities was approximately $50,000, plus another $50,000 for insurance cost. The college president asked me what could be done to cut costs without jeopardizing safety and security.

I began praying, seeking God's wisdom and direction in the use of His money. That's when I found today's Scripture verse and was reminded that all efforts to watch and insure, apart from God's help, would be in vain.

A proposed reduction in insurance coverage saved approximately $38,000 in premiums; a reduction in our security expenses lowered it to $28,0 00. Both proposals were based on studies and then adopted. The college did afford reasonable protection, but the practical application of Scripture saved $66,000 annually.

On the other hand, we cannot fail to take precautions and just sit back and expect God's protection. We must take sensible, practical steps to insure safety and then trust God to be in control.

Be sure to seek God's guidance as you endeavor to become informed in all the details of your own particular life situation.

Lord, "With Thy counsel Thou wilt guide me, and afterward receive me to glory" (Psalm 73:24).

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