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WEEKLY ENCOURAGEMENT
Updated: Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Reverse Philosophy
"To leave everything here and take nothing into the next world is success, but to leave nothing here and take all into the next world is failure." Lewis Shaffer
In this quote, Dr. Shaffer states the world's view of success and failure. It is interesting to note Jesus said we should do just the opposite. "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:" Matthew 6:19-20
Have you noticed how the world's philosophy influences the way you and I think? Our old nature is very interested in success and the recognition that goes with it. We want things whether it is new furniture, clothes, house, car, jewelry or something else. If we do not have a desire for more and better, others often criticize and accuse us of not being ambitious.
Contentment is a rare trait in our world today, and yet the Scriptures tell us, "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have:" Hebrews 13:5 The word "contentment" means to be satisfied, to be a peace with."
I have made an interesting observation about myself. If I do not go looking around in the Mall or other stores, and limit my shopping to groceries and actual needs, I am for the most part, quite content. However, if I go looking through the shops, I find all sorts of goodies I want.
I do not need and have not even thought about new shoes until I see all the latest styles for the summer season. I have drawers full of jewelry and need nothing. Yet, when I look through the jewelry clearance section invariably I spot a piece that is too cute to resist. And so it goes on and on. Since I am a bargain nut, clearance signs are like magnets. Our enemy knows how to distract us and how to entice our flesh.
Therefore, it is needful for us to occasionally check what our goals are. Are we as interested in bringing our Lord joy as in getting recognition from our peers? Are we working as hard for eternal rewards as we are for material gain? Are the top three goals in your life centered on earthly things or spiritual?
Jesus said, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33
POINT TO PONDER:If you could have any thing you wanted, what would wish for?
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- Sandy Hastings |
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