Today’s Reading: Luke 16:14-31
“The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed him. And he said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.”
As I started reading for today, I stopped after the first few verses. There is so much great wisdom to be shared as you read through this section, but I thought about the first couple of verses. I thought of all the ways we try to justify ourselves as humans. How can we wake up daily striving for the subsequent feeling of success? 99.999(repeat) of people have put their hope and trust into the world at some point in their earthly lives. We have and always will live in an earthly world that has so much to offer. Whatever your desire long for can probably be found on this earth or delivered by Amazon.
We often believe that we will be filled if we have the next best thing or accomplish that impossible task. A worldly mindset will make you think that we will be happier if you only make this much more. The Pharisees thought that gaining earthly riches would bring you closer to Heaven. They were in love with money. Did you know that the Latin word for Pharisee is separated? Striving for the world and its riches can separate us from Him.
Is there anything separating you from a closer relationship with Jesus? The world offers it all. But all we need is Jesus. The earth exerts a downward pull on your thoughts and your bank accounts. Media bombards you with greed, lust, and cynicism that we need to keep up and strive for more. When you face these things, pray for protection and discernment of what you need. Stay in continual communication with the Lord whenever you walk through the wastelands of this world. Refuse to worry about feeling like you need the next best thing because this form of worldliness will weigh you down and block awareness of My Presence. Remember His presence as you lay down at night. His presence when you juggle schedules to get your children or yourself to the next place on the calendar. The world will find ways to separate you. Don’t let it. If you need help, call on Him, and talk with a brother or sister in Christ.
Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Stay blessed