I have too much stuff. I have garage sales, give clothes to charitable organizations and throw things away. Then I buy more things at garage sales, buy more clothes and buy more things. I am much like the proverbial hamster in a wheel, on a vicious cycle of getting rid of and then buying stuff. Do I really need all of this stuff? No, I do not.
The world today encourages the accumulation of as many things as possible. This is the world’s view of success. Jesus tells us to, “Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Luke 18:22) What a powerful statement! We are called to have faith and follow Jesus without the need for anything else.
I look at my home and the different items everywhere and I am convicted to ask myself the question; what if all of this was gone tomorrow. Would it truly matter? What if I am left with the clothes on my back and those I love around me? How would I react? Would I be thankful to God for what I have left?
I would hope I would say yes, but God convicts my heart to meditate and pray about it all the same.
Tragedies happen every day and people are often left with very little when the dust settles. About four years ago, a tornado ripped through my neighborhood. The twister spared our home, thankfully, but many of our neighbors suffered severe damage and devastation. Some homes were completely leveled and the families that lived in them were left with only their lives and the clothes on their back.
My husband and I walked the streets in search of anyone we could help. Christmas decorations from attics, backyard swing sets, family photos, and life memories littered the blocks. Sadness and grief loomed in the air as we met our neighbors in the aftermath. I recall that time now and I am touched in my heart about how much was lost by so many people that day.
Matthew 6:21 reminds us, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This powerful verse convicts my heart to not hold all of the stuff in a high esteem, but rather turn my heart toward Jesus. Treasuring the stuff more than I treasure Jesus will not equip me to withstand the loss of the material. Those things come and go but Jesus stands forever. His love endures and never comes to an end (Laminations 3:22 NIV).
This is my story, what’s yours? I would love to hear from you! Click on the “Tell Me Your Story” link and know that all stories shared are done so in confidence. I may even contact you for permission to use your story as a featured post in the future! Inspire other about your story of reliance on Jesus and Him alone through a struggle!
Until next week!
Kimberly <3