Seek first
You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury; you have fattened your hearts as in a day of slaughter. James 5:5
James chapter 5 starts out with a profoundly serious warning that I think I must have read over all the times I have read this book. It’s an admonishing to the rich and corrupt in this world to first of all recognize that the things of this world are rotting away. Secondly that these things will testify against them on the day of judgement. It’s a reprimand against heaping up treasure in this life. It ends up by saying those who live this way will be responsible for the lives they had influence over and didn’t lead them in the ways of righteousness (vs. 6).
So, how does this apply to us today? Well, I’m taking it as a warning to not chase after material things. Although I like nice things and have many of them, they are not what I am pursuing in life. Maybe I should say, things should not be my purpose for living. So, I ask myself each morning, “what am I pursuing today? Am I looking for those around me that I can encourage and minister to? Am I making it my goal to significantly impact at least one life each day for eternity?” I am endeavoring to not become distracted by the “pretty” things in this world and focusing instead on the eternal. It is not always easy, in fact, it is much easier to see and desire what is right here within reach.
Today I want to encourage you to seek the things that are above that will not fade and rot away. Look for lives to touch each day for the kingdom of heaven. Put away the desire for things and possession. Although it is not bad to have nice things, endeavor to keep them in their proper place and low on the priority list. Seek first God’s kingdom and then He will add the things to you that you need and desire.
Today’s scripture reading: James 5:1-6
The Daily Dose 