It’s Just Stuff!

Today’s devotional is written by Liz Baker.

(Psalm 49:16-19 NIV) 16 Do not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendor of their houses increases; 17 for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them. 18 Though while they live they count themselves blessed—and people praise you when you prosper—19 they will join those who have gone before them, will never again see the light of life.

Many times in my adult life, I have compared myself to others and their successes. It is very easy to get distracted by the pressure to reach certain benchmarks that society sets for us, and when these achievements are not earned within a given timeframe, that is when worry, comparison, and even panic take over in our minds. We wonder when we will ever be able to buy a home, get a newer car,  or earn a raise at work. I think this is a natural inclination for us, when you consider our culture in America and the imprint that media leaves in our minds. There is intense pressure to prosper financially. In the world of social media, we are presented with the best parts of everyone else’s lives. We see photos of new cars, new houses, beautiful families in new clothes, and exciting vacations. Everything good is made public, and that’s mostly what we see and hear from one another. There is nothing at all wrong with having nice and new things, nor is there anything wrong with sharing our excitement over them with one another. Keep in mind though, that most people hit pot-holes in the road from time to time. We ALL have our lows. So if you are in a ditch broken down with a flat tire, figuratively or literally, don’t fret. Remember that in Him are you complete. Colossians 2:10 says, “and in Christ you have been brought to fullness.” Where you are right now, you have been made FULL in Him!

As we approach this beautiful season of rejoicing, Easter, let us remember a few very important things.

1. Remember that to God we are all the same. In plenty and want, in struggle and prosperity, we are all His children. He loves us, He sees us, and He desires a relationship with us all. 
2. Remember to collect moments, not things. None of it goes with you when you leave this life, but what you leave behind in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control will never end. The seeds of wisdom that you plant now will have an eternal impact on the lives of people for generations to come.
3. Remember not to worry! Matthew 6: 31-34 says, 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for this reminder that Your hand is upon my life.  Thank you, Lord, that You love me right where I am at in this moment.  Whether I am on top of the hill or down at the bottom struggling through the mud, You love me.  Help me to keep my focus on who You have created me to be and what You have purposed for me to do while I am blessed with life.  I will not allow comparison to steal my joy.  Instead I will be grateful and seek to live a fruitful life, influencing and loving others for Your glory.  Amen.