Please accept my apologies in advance- this post has no pictures! =)
Today's sermon at church put me in check. I like those types of sermons- and it's been awhile since I've heard one that really hit me.
This last week, Jon and I looked at a house. We're not actively searching for a home yet- but it's definitely in the near future. This home was 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, beautiful neighborhood. It's owned by Jon's cousin who is moving out of state and is having a tough time selling it. Ever since we looked at it, I have been absolutely consumed by the potential of everything the house has to offer. Consumed with seeing our kids grow up there, retiring there. It was glamorous. I'd have a craft room. Jon would have an office. Storage beyond our wildest dreams. And the price was NICE.
In the back of my mind, I knew that this particular house wasn't for us, but somehow I couldn't stop thinking about it. What was eating me up inside was the fact that thinking about it this week consumed me- leaving me ungrateful for the home, blessings and life I do have. And that this house- an earthly treasure had caused me to lust after it. Not to mention- the conviction I was having for lusting after something like that when people in Haiti don't even have water or diapers for their kids.
Today at church, the pastor (who is also my father in law!) preached on living in the flesh, and being selfish. He was talking about himself- and how he needed to ask God to help him live in the Spirit- and to not be consumed by worldly possessions. Little did he know, he was talking to me, too. He then went on to point out that when we live in the flesh, we cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Or as we better know it "Lay your treasures not on this earth- but in Heaven where moth and dust don't corrupt. Wherever your treasures are, your heart will be also." (Matthew 6).
That was enough for me to leave the thought of this worldly possession- one that is clearly not what God wants me to have right now- in the rear view mirror. I have been mad at myself for letting myself get consumed until this morning, where I learned an important lesson (one I've definitely heard before, but had forgotten this week).
Good thing God is a loving, and forgiving God. I definitely needed his forgiveness.
9 comments:
I'm glad you're able to have something to turn to like that. I believe in "something" but I don't know what that thing is. I know I have faith, but in what I'm not sure. The house does sound fabulous! Sometimes I have to put myself back in check and remind myself of all of the good/wonderful things that I have in life and not focus on what I wish we could have!
I love when I hear a sermon that was meant for me!
Thanks for the reminder... we all need to step back and appreciate what we do have.
Agreed! This exact thing happened to me a few months ago. I was DETERMINED that this house was meant for me! When I actually took a step back, I realized God had better things in store for me. :) I love sermons like that!
I have been following your blog in my reader for a while. When I read this post I felt that it addressed the exact thing that I have been struggling with lately. I have been so wrapped up in coveting what others have that I have not been appreciative of what God has blessed me with. Of late I looked at everything around me and saw only what was missing and not what was there. I was in essence being ungrateful for God's gifts. Thank you for this message. It came at the right time ;)
What a strong message!
That was beautiful. I got my first blog award today and I wanted to pass it on to you as you were one of the first blogs I stumbled upon. I have really enjoyed getting to know you - and be inspried by all of your projects.
I am so happy to have read your blog today. I needed a reminder as I was feeling jealous over something a friend of mine was getting. I was consuming my thoughts with evil thoughts on how she didnt deserve it. I am so blessed with so much like a beautiful family and a great job. Thanks leslie for your great blog.
Hey, I just stumbled upon your blog from in the fun lane. thanks so much for sharing & for the reminder! Have a wonderful weekend! =)
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