“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” (II Corinthians 9:8, ESV)

I learned a new word this week. I’ve known the concept for a long time, but I had not come across the word that encompasses the concept. The word? Shrinkflation. As you can guess, it combines the words shrink and inflation. It’s when manufacturers shrink a product to offset rising manufacturing costs. The unobservant consumer may not realize that even though the price is the same, there are a bit fewer potato chips in the package or an ounce or two less shampoo in the familiar bottle. Ah, you’re thinking. I’ve noticed that!

As I was restocking some household supplies recently, it became obvious that my money is not buying the same amount of product as before. I felt deceived because I did notice a difference. The box might look the same, but it feels lighter. To get the true picture, I must check the unit cost marked on the shelf. Even worse is when the price goes up and the amount decreases.

At the same time as I was feeling a bit disgruntled about inflation eating into my budget, I realized that God’s economy has not changed—and will not change. He has not downsized my blessings. He has not reduced the amount of His provision. He is faithful to keep His word. “He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it” (I Thessalonians 5:24, ESV). That means He will faithfully continue to:

  • Supply all my needs, not just a few. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19, ESV).
  • Answer my prayers. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7, ESV).
  • Deliver me from trouble. “And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” (Psalm 50:15, ESV).
  • Give me abundant life. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10, ESV).

Today, when we face shortages and delivery delays, the answer we are often given is that it’s a supply chain problem. Manufacturers cannot get the necessary materials needed to make the product. Or shipping of the finished product has become backlogged. God has no supply chain problems. Ephesians 3:20 (ESV) assures us that He “is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think.”

When we get frustrated that our usual product is either unavailable or more costly, let it be a reminder that God’s supply is always sufficient. We can trust Him to abundantly care for His people. When we are faithful to Him, He is faithful to us. There is no shortage in what God can do.

Author

Mary enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and spending time with old friends. Although directionally challenged, she would rather take the back roads with their discoveries than the boredom of the interstate.

3 Comments

  1. Sheila Faire

    YES!, Sis. Loudermilk we had ALL been talking about Shrinkflatiin!!! Praise God for His ABUNDANT promises. Most of which we access today. Thank you for reminding us of our God’s amazing gifts!!!! I always love your devotions and appreciate so much that you are willing to always share!