Scripture:
1 John 2:15-17
"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever."
Reflection:
The sermon taught us that since the fall in Genesis 3, everything of this earth is marked by the curse—it's all temporary and ultimately fails us. Jesus identified three ways earthly treasures perish: moths (things get consumed), rust (things erode and lose value), and thieves (things get taken). These make terrible gods because they cannot provide lasting security, identity, or fulfillment. Yet our human nature is drawn to trust them. When we get defensive about discussions of money and possessions, it may indicate that "stuff" has claimed more of our hearts than we've given to Jesus.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I recognize that I've sometimes placed my hope in things that cannot last. I've sought security in possessions that will eventually fail me. Help me to see earthly treasures for what they truly are—temporary and unable to satisfy my deepest needs. Teach me to hold loosely to the things of this world and to grip tightly to You. Amen.
Action:
Identify one possession you've been holding onto too tightly—something that has become a source of security or identity apart from God. It might be a financial safety net beyond wise stewardship, a status symbol, or even a "must-have" item you're pursuing. Pray specifically about your attachment to this thing and ask God to help you hold it with an open hand.
1 John 2:15-17
"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever."
Reflection:
The sermon taught us that since the fall in Genesis 3, everything of this earth is marked by the curse—it's all temporary and ultimately fails us. Jesus identified three ways earthly treasures perish: moths (things get consumed), rust (things erode and lose value), and thieves (things get taken). These make terrible gods because they cannot provide lasting security, identity, or fulfillment. Yet our human nature is drawn to trust them. When we get defensive about discussions of money and possessions, it may indicate that "stuff" has claimed more of our hearts than we've given to Jesus.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I recognize that I've sometimes placed my hope in things that cannot last. I've sought security in possessions that will eventually fail me. Help me to see earthly treasures for what they truly are—temporary and unable to satisfy my deepest needs. Teach me to hold loosely to the things of this world and to grip tightly to You. Amen.
Action:
Identify one possession you've been holding onto too tightly—something that has become a source of security or identity apart from God. It might be a financial safety net beyond wise stewardship, a status symbol, or even a "must-have" item you're pursuing. Pray specifically about your attachment to this thing and ask God to help you hold it with an open hand.
Posted in Daily Devotionals
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