1 Timothy 6:6-10
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NIV)
It is so very difficult, in today's world, to let go of always wanting more. Sometimes it even seems like the want for more is a good thing. You want your child to go to the best college. You want to give the best you can for your friends and family to enjoy. It can become so easy to feel like we need more, and in the process of striving to have more, give up on the most fundamental of necessities, a good relationship with Him, a joyful family gathering, an inner peace that recognizes the goodness in the most simple and truly important things in life.
I recently had a friend of more than 50 years lose her battle with pancreatic cancer. At her wake service they played the song, "That's Important to Me" by Joey + Rory, a beautiful melody with lyrics about the simplest and best things in this life. My friend was not a wealthy woman, but she had what we would call a gift of gab, always pulling people close with laughter and joy, and truly appreciative of every moment. When everything else is gone, when we are at the lowest, then it seems easiest to see what counts, what we should actually be working for. When we can see that all we have is a gift from God, the riches of this world all come from Him, it can seem crystal clear that contentment and being connected to God in all things is the highest goal, the pinnacle of our existence.
Questions for Reflection:
- How much time each day do I recognize and focus on the truly important things in this life?
- What can I do to connect with God and those around me in a more positive and honest way to search always for contentment rather than gain?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, often I fall short and fall into the temptations of this world. I pray for the strength and knowledge to strive for the best goals, the important goals, and not always for more, more, more. Forgive me and guide me on a path that leads me always closer to You. All praise and glory to you, Lord. Amen.
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