Set your mind on things above
Do not overwork to be rich, because of your own understanding, cease! Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; They fly away like an eagle toward heaven. Proverbs 23:4-5
I need a constant reminder not to focus on what is temporary in this world. To not be running after more. More things, more money and more entertainment. These things are a distraction from my purpose here in the world. Yes, finances are important, not only to sustain life, but also to support the ministry I have been given and to build the kingdom of heaven. However, my part is to trust God to provide and to supply every need. He leads me to the right employment; He gives me the hours that I need. I don’t need to be thinking how I can earn more or increase my wages. I ask Him and He provides and leads the way. If I need to make adjustments in my course, it is my responsibility to take time to listen to His direction and then follow it. It is the faith life and daily walk. Sometimes I think if I just had a little more, I would be happier only to realize that riches fly away quickly and true happiness is only in the peace of God.
The problem is that I tend to get distracted when I look at all the world has to offer. Even though I know it can never satisfy or fulfill the desires of my heart. I often have to stop and remind myself that beyond today is eternity and only investing my time and resources in that will last, Proverbs 23:17&18 says, Do not let your heart envy sinners, but be zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day; For surely there is a hereafter, and your hope will not be cut off.
God’s not against us enjoying this life and He’s not disappointed when we have nice things according to the world’s standard. He only wants what is best for us and to protect us from the deceptions of this life. He never planned for us to gain the whole world but loose our soul and He didn’t bless us so we could consume it all on ourselves. We are blessed so we can reach the world with God’s love and bring hope to a people that have no hope.
Today I want to encourage you keep your mind set on things above. Make a plan to spend a portion your time and resources on eternal things and let them be your focus and mission in life. Set a goal to encourage and impact at least one more person each day. This is not difficult or overwhelming. Then ask God for help and to lead you to that one who needs His love today. Don’t worry that its not enough, it will be a little more than you did yesterday and that’s progress!
Today’s scripture reading: Proverbs 23
The Daily Dose 
As I finished writing this morning, I considered my encouragement to impact lives, (to impact 1 life per day) I thought about how it seems so hard to share God’s love with people in the world. I know it just fear taunting me to give me thoughts of people rejecting the love of God when I share it. I started thinking, I should pray more about that! We all know its the right thing to do and I’m sure we all do it some, but what would happen if we spent time each day asking God to give us, not only the desire to share Him with other, but also the strength and wisdom to do it. Does anyone out there do this on a regular basis? Can you share your thoughts and success stories? Anyone who has encouraging stories about sharing with other, please share?
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