Devotion for Saturday, January 29, 2022

“But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.  But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction” (1 Timothy 6:8-9).

Enough is enough only when you realize that enough is enough.  The one who desires to be rich is never content.  Beyond the necessities, wealth is used for influence.  Influence is power (or so we sinfully think).  Those who seek power seek to place themselves alongside the Lord.  Learn to be content with having enough.  If you are blessed with more, or blessed with less, in all things give thanks to the Lord.

Lord, You know where the struggles I have are in me.  You know where I want more than I need and where I am tempted for power or influence.  Guide me, Lord, so that I would not seek just things, but You who is the Maker of all things.  Lead me, Lord, in order that I may not fall prey to the common temptations, but see them for what they are and flee from them.  Help me through all struggles so that I may become like You.

Lord Jesus, You have witnessed time and again the struggle of humanity.  A few have and most do not have.  In the name of making things equal, it ends up being simply a shift in who has and who does not have.  Rather than wasting my time on meaningless pursuits, help me to pursue the greater portion by following You and learning from You the higher things.  Thank You for the salvation You alone give.  Amen.