These Things

Thursday:  James 5:1-6—Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.  You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.  You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Greed is not sustainable.  History has evidenced this truth repeatedly, yet greed perpetuates in western civilization.  Every day, we are confronted with the latest “thing” we need.  We all want something bigger and better.  We want to be comfortable.  We want to not have to worry about money and bills.  For those who have plenty, they tend to want more. There is a saying, “the more you have, the more you want.” When we seek the things of the Earth, we can never be satisfied because earthly treasures are not eternal.  There is no way that wealth and riches can feed a soul.  What feeds a soul is relationship with each other and with God.  When we treat others with respect, when we lend a helping hand, when we cultivate community – that is when we are fulfilled.  When we call on the Holy Spirit, when we pray to God, when we praise and worship Him – that is when we are fulfilled. 

Today as you pray and meditate on His Word, honestly consider the earthly treasures you seek to hoard. Envision those things placed on the altar before the Lord and ask God to take them.  Praise Him for His enduring love, affection, mercy, and grace.  Worship Him as your Provider and Sustainer.  Pray that the Holy Spirit would guide you as you develop a more mature and intimate relationship with Him.