As Christians, we know that God has called us to accomplish things. He has given us commands to obey and decrees to follow. We know that if we wanted to live a fulfilling life, we must follow Him at all cost. But we are also aware that everything around us can make us lose sight of our goals, that the very thing we are so passionate about can keep us from finishing the race ahead of us.
The saints of old faced challenges in their time, though they probably didn’t have to worry about modernization getting in the way of their faith. The problem now is that we have advanced so much that even the good stuff can become an obstacle to our walk with the Lord.
Be Deeply Rooted in Him
While folding our clean clothes, my mind began to drift to one of my dreams. I believe that it is every woman’s desire to have a home she can call her own. And I am aware that I have poured a significant amount of time into making sure that this house turns out exactly as I have envisioned.
In that moment, God allowed me to check my heart, my intentions, and goals. Am I still living for His glory? Truth be told, He didn’t forbid us from asking Him for material blessings. He didn’t say we’re not allowed to have these things, but it is clear in His words that we ought to live wisely.
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians chapter 5 verses 15-17)
We may think that desiring to become well-off is harmless. After all, these are God’s blessings to His children, right? But we must be careful not get carried away by the pleasures of this world that we forget we are here to live for Him. We must be wise so as not to get swayed by the false promises of the enemy in exchange for our obedience to God. Everything we have and every reason for our existence is for God and His glory alone.
Life is So Much More
Before we begin to desire and ask God for something, may we be reminded to check our hearts first and let every dream and vision be aligned to His will. So if we are to go over the blessings He has given us, may we assert that each is a representation of who Jesus is in our lives.
May our homes become a safe haven for our fellow brethren. May our vehicles be used to bring the gospel to communities. May our wealth be utilized to help those who are in need. And even if we don’t have any of these earthly possessions, what matters is that people see God in every area of our blessed life.
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew chapter 5 verse 16)
Why do we need all these material blessings? It’s to fulfill our God-given assignment which not only brings us closer to Him every day but also to those who don’t know Him yet. Everything that we ask God for must serve His purpose. If we will always think this way, we’ll enjoy our days, not lacking in anything. We’ll be able to do with joy what Paul says in the book of Colossians chapter 3 verse 2: Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
Only a life that is centered around God and focused on following Jesus can truly satisfy.