Needs vs. Wants

The debate between "Needs" and "Wants" pops up in my life from time to time. Usually right after I receive my tax return, or have a month with some overtime in my paycheck.

I keep a running list of things that I "need" and things that I "want". That way, if I come upon - say a church yard sale - I have an idea of what to look for.... it also helps keep impulse buying to a minimum.

Most things are pretty easy to sort onto the appropriate lists. But sometimes the lines are blurred. I mean, I don't "NEED" it, but it sure would make my life MUCH easier or function more smoothly if I had it. It is with those items that I struggle.

I was fortunate this past week. My son has been wanting a new mattress. He is a bit of "The Princess and the Pea" sort, and his was "uncomfortable". (But, he had one, so did he NEED one?) Fortunately, the one I found at the church yard sale, suits him wonderfully!

The funny thing is - as I have spent the past week sorting some items onto their respective lists - one song, that we will sing this morning, brings it all back into perspective.

"All I have needed Thy hands hath provided. Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, Unto me..."