Need vs Want
From Grace for All by Jim Stovall, Greta Smith, First United Methodist Church, Maryville, TN
April 30, 2026 · 7 min · Season 24 · Episode 895
About this episode
The episode discusses the distinction between needs and wants, emphasizing spiritual growth and the importance of focusing on what truly matters in life.
Matthew 6:30-34 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Need vs want is a common lesson that adults try to instill in the young, especially teenagers. We try to teach them to focus on what is most important. We suggest they focus on developing their skills and education and not worry about having the latest phone or the nicest car. We suggest they work on being a better person, learn healthy habits to improve their diet, and to exercise. We shake our heads when they make the wrong choices. If we as adults are disciplined then we pat ourselves on the back for eating healthy, exercising, saving for retirement, and not chasing after the Jones' latest vacation…
People in this episode
Hosts: Jim Stovall, Greta Smith
Topics covered
- faith
- needs vs wants
- spiritual growth
- idolatry
- personal development
Keywords
- faith
- needs
- wants
- spirituality
- personal development
- idols
- Matthew 6:30-34
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: First United Methodist Church
Books & works: Matthew 6:30-34
Places: Maryville, TN
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