A recent internet article reported that, according to the UN, the world’s population has surpassed 8 billion in 2024. In the early 1800s, it took over 120 years for the global population, which was 1 billion, to double to 2 billion. However, since the 1970s, it has rapidly increased by 1 billion every 12-13 years, finally reaching 8 billion. Consequently, many people worry that this population growth will accelerate environmental damage and, in particular, deplete the Earth’s resources. However, as believers, we must clearly understand that it is not human worry or effort but God, who created everything, who fulfills human needs.

Indeed, we encounter various situations in our lives, and many things become necessary. Therefore, we need to prepare for unexpected circumstances. However, as we live this life, what we should always rely on first is “God, the Lord who provides,” the God of Jehovah Jireh.

As I shared in yesterday’s sermon, “Jehovah Jireh” means “The Lord will provide” in Hebrew. In the Bible, this name represents God’s sufficient care for His beloved children. Therefore, like this name, believers can always look to and expect God’s care first. Through faith in Jehovah Jireh, we always experience God’s blessings and grace.

When we seek, find, and knock, looking to God who will provide for us first, we will be filled with the grace of having our needs met. As you go through this week, I hope you will always direct your heart and mind towards God and live a life that follows His will. It is my sincere prayer that God will fulfill your needs, care for you, and guide you in life.