Tightwads and Martyrs

To have what we want is riches;
but to be able to do without is power.
- George MacDonald

One of the reasons we tightwads love being tightwads is because of the sense of calm it gives us, in the midst of difficult circumstances and uncertain future. Even without the large savings account and low/nil amount of debt that often accompanies tightwad-ery, there is a sense of power in knowing that you can live on very little and be happy.

As Christians we have this power on a deeper level. "And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matt. 10:28) This is why Martyrs have been able withstand hunger and cold and torture and death... "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." (2 Corinth 4:8-9) They can look at their tormentors and say, "What's the worst that could happen? What I treasure, you can't touch."... "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹²I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³I can do everything through him who gives me strength." (Phil 4:10-13)

And to quote Paul once more. "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." Phil 3:12 The reason why I think so much about fearless contentment is because I'm a worry-er and I don't wanna be.