Feb 02 2022

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

There is a special feeling of happiness that accompanies cashing our very first paycheck. We have worked hard, overcome obstacles, and earned every penny. While the money only lasts as long as it takes to pay our bills, for that sliver of time, we feel great pleasure.

In 1 Timothy 6:9, Paul warns a young pastor named Timothy of some of the trappings of wealth. This verse helps us understand that along with a wealthy lifestyle comes myriad opportunities for temptation. Of course, everyone faces tempation, including those who are not wealthy. But the temptation may be especially compelling for people who have no financial worries and can afford to buy anything they want.

Timothy was undoubtedly a man with little wealth. As a young pastor, he relied on those within the church to help provide for his needs. He lived what would have been considered, by our standards today, a life of poverty.

Paul's words about wealth were for Timothy to warn others, and they also serve as a lesson for us today. While we may envy those who have more money or live a better life than we do, we are spared some of the downfalls that accompany wealth. The real lesson is learning to be content and satisfied with what the Lord has given us.

Whether we have a lot or a little, God has allowed us to be temporary stewards of what is His. We need His guidance to keep our eyes on Him and not on earthly possessions.

Lord, thank you for everything you have given to me. At times, I desire more money and the ability to buy new things, but I'm grateful you always provide enough for me. Teach me to be content in every season of life, whether I have plenty or am struggling. I choose to trust you for everything I need. Help me remember that the things in this life are only temporary, but you provide eternal rewards. Help me be a good steward and to keep my eyes on you. In Jesus' name, amen.

Feb 01 2022

The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. :

At any point in time, dozens of armed conflicts are raging throughout the world. The causes of war are often religious differences, territorial issues, economic gain, revenge, and/or nationalism. Whatever the cause, such conflicts have likely existed since humans first walked the Earth.

In Exodus 14:14, Moses is facing a tremendous challenge. He has led the Israelites out of Egypt, where they were living in slavery. Pharaoh and his massive army angrily chase after them in an attempt to recapture the Israelites. Now, God's chosen people are standing at the edge of the Red Sea with nowhere to go. Moses reminds the people that this isn't their war to fight, it's the Lord's. They simply had to trust God to fight for them.

Many times we face a crossroads where our options are to fight or to hold our peace. These conflicts may result from our actions, or from the consequences of others' actions. Still, we are free to choose between taking our own path, or trusting God to lead us in His ways.

The best option is always to trust God and know that He can see the beginning, middle, and end of every situation. Sometimes it may seem like we have lost a battle, but God knows what will take place as a result of our apparent defeat. Only God can see what is happening behind the scenes, and He is always working His plan. The question is... are we willing to hold our peace and allow the Lord to fight for us?

Dear God, you see every conflict in life that I face. Some situations are a result of things I have done, while others may be undeserved. I know I am unable to change my past decisions, but help me trust in you as I face whatever comes my way. Give me wisdom and strength to trust you no matter what. Teach me to allow you to fight for me. In Jesus' name, amen.
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