We've seen the trauma and devastation reported; how enraged fires in minutes can rotate lives into a spin, homes to ashes, level terrain, and crumble irreplaceable momentums. In an instant; decisions are made, surrounded by scary, smoky conditions; what to leave behind, shoving a lifetime into suitcases. When our world seems out of control, we must remind ourselves that God is still in control. With God's help, we will gain victory; he is the source of all hope and promise; and will bring us safely to the other side.
Despair makes us feel isolated and distant from God, but this is precisely when we need God most. When we feel overwhelmed by our circumstances, feeling sorry for ourselves will only increase feelings of hopelessness; but crying out to God will turn our attention to the only one who can really help. Draw on Christ's power for strength; learn to rely on God's promises and Christ's authority to help you be content. He will supply all your needs, but in a way that he knows is best for you.
We deceive ourselves when we measure our happiness or contentment in life by the amount of wealth we possess. When we put riches at the top of our value system, we let power; pleasure and financial security overshadow the eternal value of our relationship with God. We think we will be happy or content when we get riches, only to discover that they don't really satisfy, and the pleasures soon fade. The true measurement of happiness or contentment is found in God's love and in doing his will. You will find true happiness if you put your relationship with God above earthly riches.
Compare heavenly values with earthly values; our first loyalty should be to those things that do not fade, cannot be stolen or burned up, and never wear out. We should not be fascinated with possessions, lest they possess us. Jesus is calling for a decision that permits us to live contentedly with whatever we have because we have chosen what is eternal and lasting.
Only in God are we truly safe and secure; anything else is false security. Whether you are surrounded by mighty walls of stone, a comfortable home, or a secure job, no one can predict what tomorrow may bring. Our relationship with God is the only security that cannot be taken away; there is no lasting security apart from God. Possessions and people can disappear in a moment, but God does not change; only he can supply true security. The time to set your life's course is now, while you still have time, before devastation comes knocking at your door.
We are to abandon the values and attachments of this world in order to be ready for Christ's return. His return will happen suddenly, and when he comes there will be no second chances. Some will be taken to be with him; the rest will be left behind. Our BREATH of HOPE will be revitalized through the clear path our LORD leads.
Copyright 2007 Christine Ulmer
