The Spaghetti Syndrome

By Lynn Ludwick

The package directions indicated so many ounces of spaghetti pasta per person. My sister weighed the proper amount, then hesitated and asked if I thought it enough. “No,” I said, “add a bit more.” After dinner we scooped extra pasta into a refrigerator container.

At least excess spaghetti noodles don’t take much storage room. I am a quilter, so when one more little piece of fabric or a cheaper-by-the-yard bargain finds its way to my home, the need for creative storage comes into play. I find it too easy to operate under the mistaken idea that the next “thing” will be just what I need—something that might add to my happiness or solve a problem.

My just-a-bit-more philosophy spills into my spiritual life as well. When the Holy Spirit impresses a truth on my heart through a sermon or my daily devotions, I know what I need to do. Instead, I seek more, convinced that what I really need is right around the corner. I fail to apply what I already know.

However, less is often better and I know that God’s provision is adequate. I must admit that I sometimes wish for steak and a mansion, but He’s provided hamburger and a cottage—a darling cottage at that. And the Lord assures me I need not worry. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 He provides the strength I need for my daily challenges and battles. “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

The apostle Paul learned to be content, “learned” being the operative word. God didn’t zap him with instant coping skills, but guided and nurtured Paul through thick and thin, through times of plenty and times of dire need. With time and trusting God, Paul grew to understand that God was enough. “…I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…” Philippians 4:12

So the next time I cook a spaghetti dinner, I’ll try to resist the urge to cook a bit more pasta. The manufacturer bases its directions on proven test kitchen results. Likewise, God’s instructions have proven faithful and true whether relayed through the Bible, the Holy Spirit, a sermon or a devotional reading—adequate for that moment and that situation. Like Paul, I too can learn that enough is enough.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

Lynn Ludwick writes from Medford, Oregon. lynniegirl45@hotmail.com