EARTHLY THINGS ARE UNSATISFYING

“A man's wealth often breeds misery, but never contentment. How foolish to suppose it ever could! Our spirits are immaterial; they will not be satisfied with the perishable delights of flesh and blood. The earthly prizes we strive to win are far inferior to the nature of man. Therefore, we must look far beyond them if we want to be blessed-- even to God Himself, who is the Father of spirits.

The possessions God allows us to have are intended for our use, not our enjoyment. Trying to squeeze something out of them that was never in them in the first place is a futile endeavor. A cow's udders, gently pressed, will yield sweet milk, nourishing and refreshing. Applying more and more pressure will not produce greater quantities of milk. We lose the good of material things by expecting too much from them. Those who try hardest to please themselves with earthly goods find the least satisfaction in them.

All our frustrations could be easily avoided if we would turn away from things and look to Christ for happiness. Here is what you can expect when you do:

First, the guilt of your sins all gone. Guilt is the pin that constantly pricks our joy. When Christ takes away your sins, He also takes the guilt.

Second, your nature renewed and sanctified. Holiness is simply the creature restored to the state of health which God intended when He created him. And when is a man more at ease than when he is healthy?

Third, adoption into the family of God. Surely this cannot help but make you happy—to be the son or daughter of so great a King.

Fourth, an eternal inheritance with Christ. We cannot begin to comprehend what this means in terms of everlasting joy. Our present conceptions of heaven are no more like heaven itself than an artist’s painting of the sun is like the orb in the sky.“ 


Reflection: How much are you seeking satisfaction from your earthly possessions?

Conclusion: True satisfaction can only be found in the life Jesus gives us every day.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617