More God, Fewer Things

More God, Fewer Things

Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.

1 Timothy 6:17 (NASB)

We read about the lives of the rich and famous. We watch television programs that take us on guided tours of their homes. We also watch as they move from partner to partner, struggle with addictions, and spiral downward as they battle all types of personal demons. Money doesn’t bring happiness.

Where do true riches come from? The Amish probably have fewer material things than most people.

Those who have money too often put their faith in this world, in things, and in looking outward in an attempt to solve what’s inward. They are robbed of trusting Jesus and finding peace in Him alone. They stockpile what won’t last and miss out on what will last forever. In the words of Jesus, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own” (Luke 12:15). Those of us who have accumulated things soon discover that the things we think we own begin to own us as we dust them, manage them, sort them, store them, and sometimes insure them.

If we have only God, we have everything, but with each thing we purchase, it becomes easy to feel that we need God less. Getting a few of our “wants” is fine, but, like the Amish, our focus should always be on the deeper gifts God gives us: our church families, our friends, our homes, and our talents.

As today’s verse reminds us, it’s God “who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.” True enjoyment comes from Him alone, no matter what marketing people and retailers say. Do you want to be happy? You won’t find happiness chasing what the world offers. Do you want to be joyful? Look to God, pay attention to what He values, and stock up on those things.

If you were to look inwardly and outwardly, where would you say you are placing your dependence? Are you guarding your heart against every kind of greed? If not, today is a good day to start!

Dear heavenly Father, if I spent less time managing “stuff,” I’d have more time for You. And when I spend more time with You, I’ll need less stuff. Fill my heart-hunger, O God!