My creative writing students came up with scenarios that everyone could elaborate on in class. One student’s suggestion generated the most discussion: If a billionaire picked our class at random and distributed million dollar checks to all of us, what would be the first thing each of us would do?
Those who are parents said they would put the money in savings accounts for their children; some said they would buy luxury automobiles; some would travel; some would build homes; some would quit low-paying jobs and focus entirely on getting an education; one young man said he would never work another day, and would pursue his two passions in life: hunting and fishing.
“Let’s discuss what motivated our answers,” I suggested. “All of us desire a more abundant life, so we must first define what an abundant life is.” Then I asked a student named Charles to define abundant life.
“Like I said, I want the finest sports car money can buy. That would be ‘abundant life’ to me.”
In response to his answer, I wrote on the board: Those who put want before need instead of need before want, won’t get far in life; when the want is satisfied, the need is still there, and they discover want doesn’t reduce need: Want only makes need worse. Those who always want, need to listen to this truth — if they want less need.
After pondering this conundrum for a moment, Charles said, “You put want before need. You told us that you owned a sports car when you were in college. You didn’t need that car; you wanted it, so you put want before need.”
I had to admit he was right, so I answered, “Yes, but there were consequences. I had a part-time job. The pay wasn’t much, but in addition to the allowance my parents gave me, I made enough to take care of my needs. After buying the car, every penny I could scrape up went toward car payments. So, I got what I wanted, but could no longer afford what I needed. I became a victim of my own improvidence.”
Then I turned to a student who wanted to quit her job and focus on getting the best education possible. “Sarah, define abundant life.”
“For me, it would be the opportunity to make a positive difference in the world — to be a productive, successful member of society. So, getting a great education would be first on my list.” Bravo, young lady, I thought to myself.
Then someone asked, “What about you, Professor? What would you do first to assure abundant life?”
I turned and wrote one word on the board: tithe. The students seemed puzzled, so I explained.
“My mother always told me that one’s ability to make money is a gift from the Lord. Therefore, we must return what the Bible calls the first fruits to Him. And, jokingly, but dead serious, she often added, “Son, if you ever decide to rob someone, don’t rob God.”
Jimmy Reed is an Oxford, Mississippi resident, Ole Miss and Delta State University alumnus, Vietnam Era Army Veteran, former Mississippi Delta cotton farmer and ginner, author, and retired college teacher.
This story is a selection from Jimmy Reed’s latest book, entitled The Jaybird Tales.
Copies, including personalized autographs, can be reserved by notifying the author via email (.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)).
