Hungry? God’s Got You

Growing up in the 80s, I’m not ashamed to admit we got monthly “stimulus” money, except back then it was called Welfare. As a kid, I hated it because it was like broadcasting to everyone that you were poorer than them. Living in Queens, New York City, most people were in the same boat, but it still stung. That stigma vanished quickly when hunger hit, though.

Food Stamp Days

Every 1st of the month, we’d get food stamps. Back then, they weren’t on cards but came as colorful paper money — purple, brown, green, and orange bills. My mom would head to the local Check Cashing store and pick up this play money, officially called “Benefits.”

The Sweet and Bitter

If you’ve never experienced welfare, let me explain — it was both a blessing and a challenge. (And, by the way, if you got any of those stimulus checks from Trump or Biden, you’re a Welfare Recipient too! 😂)

The sweet part was heading to the store, filling the cart with food we could only dream of the rest of the month — cereal, chips, juice. I’m sure we bought some healthy stuff too, but those treats were the highlight.

But the bitter part came around day 16. The excitement faded, and soon, the fridge was empty. By the third week, all we had left was the memory of those first few days and the countdown to the next 1st of the month. That’s how my mind worked as a kid.

God’s Daily Benefits

The Bible talks about the need for both physical and spiritual nourishment, and God offers a benefits package too. But unlike welfare, He gives to us daily.

“Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.” Psalm 68:19 KJV

The Psalmist praises God for His daily provision. We don’t have to wait for the first of the month — God supplies us with what we need every day. Jesus came to expand that benefits package even more.

Jesus’ Direct Access

Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we have direct access to God. He’s not far away; He’s right in our hearts, giving us what we need, when we need it.

Welfare Wisdom

Daily Provision Matters

God doesn’t make us wait for our spiritual “benefits.” He gives us what we need each day.

“Give us this day our daily bread.” Matthew 6:11

God’s Benefits Never Run Out

While welfare might run out halfway through the month, God’s blessings never dry up.

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

Trust in Lean Times

Even when it feels like there’s nothing left, God is still working and providing.

“The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.” Psalm 34:10

Spiritual Nourishment Is Essential

Just like we need food for our bodies, our spirits need daily feeding from God.

“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4

Access Through Jesus

Because of Jesus, we don’t have to wait or go somewhere special — we have access to God’s blessings 24/7.

“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

Always in Stock

While worldly benefits like welfare may bring shame, struggle, and uncertainty, God’s spiritual benefits bring peace and assurance. He never leaves us waiting or wanting. Each day is filled with what we need — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Through Jesus, we have access to all of God’s abundant blessings without delay or limit. Just as we need food to survive, we need God’s provision to thrive, and the best part is — it’s always available.