“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and rainment let us be therewith content. But, they that will be rich fall into temptation ad a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil; which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.” 1 Tim. 6:6-11
Today’s Christian Daily Devotional
The meaning of these verses rings clear and true, especially in today’s unstable economy. It is hard for most Americans to be satisfied with the basics–food, clothes and shelter. Even the most unfortunate circumstances in America can seem luxurious when you compare it in the light of what other societies endure. In our pursuit of happiness, as these verses seem to point out, we can allow our lives to miss the enjoyment of so many simple things. We can take our precious time and squander it on the “dream of something better”. When we may actually have the capabilities to live that dream everyday. Look around you. Do you have people who love you that you have not been spending time with? Do you have clothes on your back? Food on your shelves? Is the “more” that you “need” going to satisfy that deep-rooted desire to be a better person? Are you waiting for that perfect day (when you decide you have the time) when you can purposefully live your life with meaning? That day can be today, but it has to be a choice. You must PURSUE righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness. You will never have these things unless you GO AFTER them. If you can’t take your riches to heaven with you, why are they consuming so much of you? Invest in something you CAN take with you–the character traits that people will remember you for, and the testimony of what Christ would look like if He were walking the earth today. That person could be YOU!
“Dear Heavenly Father,
Ok. It is time to re-focus. Thank you for this reminder of what my priorities should be. I was born with nothing, so I am stopping to thank you for ALL that you have blessed me with. Thank you for the air in my lungs, for giving me food, shelter and a chance to make a better life for me and my family. Lord, help me to have balance when it comes to my goals and pursuits. I don’t want to waste a moment of my life on anything that is wasteful or harmful. I know that money is a necessity that makes the world go ’round, and I want to have a proper relationship with it. I do not want to be so consumed by materialism my life becomes superficial and the depth of me as a person only goes as deep as my wallet. I want more, Lord, help me to pursue the good things in life with as much passion and vigor as I used to invest in the things that got me nowhere. In Jesus’ precious name, for the pursuit of true happiness in you, Amen.”
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