Our Basic Needs

"For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things." Psalm 107:9

Every individual is a beautiful and unique creation, complete with needs and desires specific to his or her own life. Some needs, however, are “universal.” That is, all people experience them their lives.

The first is a sense of belonging. Everyone feels the need to “fit in” somewhere. The joy you feel when surrounded by intimate friends and family is powerful evidence of this truth. The discomfort associated with moving to a job or home where no one knows you also reveals how powerful this need is in our lives.

Another universal need is a sense of worth. It’s important for all of us to be able to say, “I matter.” Yet, many people are not convinced this is true. They’re overcome by a horribly disfigured self-image that’s stealing the joy of the Lord from their lives.

A third universal need is a sense of competence. We need to know for certain that we can accomplish what God puts before us. A lack of confidence in His power and provision in our lives can be devastating.

God responded to every one of these universal needs at the cross. We belong because our heavenly Father called us into His holy family. We have worth because Jesus paid such a great price for our salvation. And, we are competent because God has sent His Holy Spirit to indwell and empower us. A breakdown in any one of these areas will have a tremendous impact on your spiritual growth.

Are you struggling with any of these universal needs? If so, lay them before the Lord today. Then, trust Him to make you the complete person He created you to be.

By Dr. Charles Stanley taken from "In Touch Daily Devotional"