Pause

When it comes to living a life that is rich, we know that it takes more than money. It has to include work that is meaningful and relationships that nourish.

That is the kind of life that God is interested in offering us. But we have choices to make; the appeal of true poverty, a life spent in self-interest and solitude, is surprisingly strong.

Choose now the richness of life God offers.

Listen

But as for you, man of God, shun all this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

1 Timothy 6:11-12

Think

Sometimes it seems like every step we take in life is just to lead us to the next step. We try to make good grades in elementary school so that we can get in honors classes in middle school, so we can take AP classes in high school, so that we can get into a top college, so we can get a good job. The thought of it all can be exhausting!

We pursue the expectations and dreams set before us. But what would God have us to pursue? Righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness are things we need to work for. They don’t just show up in our lives one morning when we wake up. We must pursue them every day. As we work to fulfill our obligations at school, work, and with many other things, we need to stay committed to the things God deems worthy.

What are you pursuing today?

Susan Reed

Pray

Holy God, help me to chase after the things you value. May the things I strive for today be pleasing to you. Amen.

Go

May God fill your soul with waters of generosity,
Taking you to the gate of thirsty neighbors,
That you might come to know them and,
Knowing them,
Share from the richness of
God's love.