I guess you could say we needed toilet paper, but that’s not why I bought a package Tuesday. The empty shelves caught my eye. With less than ten packs on the shelf, I figured I’d better not be left caught with my pants down. (Ahem) It was “just one package.” But the same sense of worry, no matter how brief, that we may be left without what we need … can turn toxic. Worry can lead to hoarding.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, hoarding is “the act of collecting large amounts of something and keeping it for yourself, often in a secret place.”
The onset of COVID-19 has created shortages of certain supplies. Some, like cooking oil, are necessities in countries where daily life depends on basic essential items. Other items, like toilet paper, are in short supply because …. well, I’m not sure. Why are people buying up tp?
Where Hoarding Starts
Hoarding is born in our hearts and minds. From there, it goes to our wallet (or Apple Pay or Amazon online …) and then to the secret corners of our pantry. “Large amounts of something” we keep for ourselves, “often in a secret place.”
How is hoarding different from being prepared?
Being prepared is being “ready to deal with a situation.” That requires understanding of what the situation is. Being prepared is based on what IS known.
The Distinctives of Being Prepared
- Responds to reliable information (like the water will be turned off, so fill an extra jug)
- Considers what is helpful to self and others in a larger system (like don’t cough on others and get them sick)
- Keeps truth in perspective (like God knows about this and His pantry isn’t empty)
- Adjusts in an orderly way to new and changing information (like school is closed, so plan activities for the kids)
On the other hand, hoarding is based on what ‘s NOT certain. It’s driven by what we imagine.
Hoarding isn’t helpful or holy. When I hoard, I believe lies about God, myself, and others.
Hoarding: Lies we Believe
- I need more than others do.
- If I take a lot no one else feels it.
- Supplies are unlimited so it’s okay.
- God may not give me enough .
- I hoard because I love my family more.
- I’m not selfish I’m just responsible.
- I can control my circumstances.
- No one will see my hoard.
- Stocking up is the same as good stewardship.
- Manna isn’t a modern thing.
When I reject those lies and believe what’s true about God, myself, and others, I’m free to prepare and even share.
Preparing: Truths we Believe
- God knows my needs. (Matthew 6:8)
- My God shall supply all my needs. (Philippians 4:19)
- Resources are limited and creation feels it. (Romans 8:22-23)
- God gives me all I need for life and godliness. (2 Peter 1:3)
- I’m called to think of others as more important than myself. (Philippians 2:3)
- Putting myself exclusively at the center of planning is being selfish. (Romans 12:3)
- God sees my hoard. (Proverbs 15:3)
- Stocking up may be a result of a lack of trust for the future. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
- God still provides what we need for today. (Matthew 6:30-34)
We don’t outwit an inadequate God when we scheme to stock up for the day when His supply runs out. Our heavenly Father knows what we need. When we refuse to believe lies and turn to truth, we’re free to prepare and not hoard.
A Prayer for When I Want to Hoard
Dear Lord, I’m worrying again. I’m fearful I won’t have enough. I’m thinking about what I need and want and what those I love need and want. I’m trying to scheme so I have enough to make me feel like I’m not out of control. But I am. I know You’re in control, so help me let go of this fear. Help me focus on Your provision and Your awareness and care for my needs. Help me find peace in knowing You’ve got this.
