Common knowledge is that the opposite of a scarcity mindset is an abundance mindset. For the most part, I say “Yes and amen.” However, I suggest that, for the Christian, there is a third option: a Provider mindset. I suggest that this is both more hopeful than a scarcity mindset and also more realistic than an abundance mindset.
In short, a scarcity mindset looks like this:
Resources are finite and limited. It says, “There’s not enough to go around.” It sees everything as a zero-sum game: if someone else gains, then someone else loses. It’s stingy. It’s pessimistic about the future. It thinks small and avoid risk. It’s primary emotional energy is fear.
Not a great way to live, TBH. Thankfully there’s also the option of an abundance mindset:
Resources are plentiful. It says, “There’s always more where that came from.” It sees everything as a win-win: if someone else gains, someone else can still also gain. It’s willing to share. It’s optimistic about the future. It thinks big and takes risk. It’s primary emotional energy is confidence.
Better, for sure. But I’d suggest a Provider mindset, which shares some features of both of the above, yet also goes further:
Resources are indeed limited; God will replenish them as needed. It says, “He gives you meat to eat in the evening, and bread to eat in the morning.” (Exodus 16:8) It takes only what it needs and leaves the rest for others. It sees everything as communal. It’s concerned more for the present than the future. It thinks in terms of obedience. It’s primary emotional energy is trust.
This, I suggest, is largely what the manna in the wilderness was—and still is—all about.
See Exodus 16:1-21.