The Prayer of Agur: A 5-Day Devotional by Jay PayleitnerSample

Second Repercussion of Living in Extremes

Agur prayed, “Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.” He followed this up with a risk he didn’t want to run: “Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’” And finally, he stated a second risk: “Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.”

Agur also realizes that if he has too little, his physical hunger will likely override his integrity. He will steal food and get caught, and God’s name will be dragged through the mud. Agur knows the Ten Commandments, confirms that the command against steal­ing is still valid, and accepts that stealing is punishable by the courts and by God.

Having more than we need. Having less than we need. Both extremes are lose-lose. But somewhere in between is that beautiful concept known as contentment.

Is that something you can pray for? Can you pray to have nei­ther too little nor too much? Can you pray for just right?

If having just enough becomes one of your top priorities, you’ll find plenty of additional biblical support.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:12-13)

Godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy 6:6)

Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil. (Proverbs 15:16)

No one is saying it’s always easy to live in contentment with who you are and in every circumstance. From the outside looking in, moderation may even seem boring. But it’s not at all. In fact, it’s freeing—especially when you invite God to help you find your sweet spot. Expect to find joy in having things just right.

Have you ever stolen, even something small? Do you cut corners or under-deliver on what others deserve? If so, then confess these failures and recommit to living contentedly with what God gives you.