What Really Matters
READ:Isaiah 49:4-9a
Ever have a day where everything seems to go wrong? Well, even on those days God wants to remind us that he is with us and we are His people. He has a plan for us and we are free from the guilt of sin. That should give us happiness even on trying days where everything goes wrong.
How much emphasis is wasted on earthly things and objects that don't last? When we have bad days one of the most important things to remember is that nothing out earth matters when compared with what God has in store for us, "Yet what is due me is in the LORD'S hand, and my reward is with my God." Far too often we have selfish desires that take our focus off of God, such as a setback at work/school or stress over bills. At times like this we need to recognize that God is pointing us back to him and what is important.
Also, we need to remember that we have been freed from the slavery of sin, "...say to the captives, 'Come out,' and to those in darkness, 'Be free!'" Even on the darkest and most frustrating days we can remember that our sins are forgiven and now we have forgiveness instead of the death our sins deserve.
The next time you're frustrated with work, traffic is backed up, or your car breaks down, remember that God is telling you to look to Him. Then remember we have the only thing that matters, forgiveness of all our sins.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: What do I usually complain about and does it really matter in the big picture of our salvation? How must Jesus have felt as he carried all our sins? How bad are our earthly troubles when compared with what Jesus had to do to pay for those sins?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Thanksgiving for Jesus' work of carrying our burdens. Pray for the strength to make it through the difficult days. Pray that others may see the happiness in our lives, so we have an opportunity to tell about the good news of the Savior.