Wednesday, October 16, 2024
I asked AI to generate a definition for the myth of materialism:
”It's the idea that the meaning of life can be found in things or created by ourselves, and that satisfaction comes from having more. However, the truth is that all material things are temporary and cannot be taken with us when we die.”
Recently, I stepped into a similar predicament. You know Precious Moments, those collectible figurines? I have over 100 of them! Let’s just say that organizing these Precious Moments—a.k.a. shtuff—required spending too many of my own “precious moments.” Don’t laugh! You likely have shtuff, too.
Regrettably, shtuff can cause our trust in Jesus to be displaced with possessions, as presented here:
Mark 10:17-22
17 As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. 19 But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.’”
20 “Teacher,” the man replied, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.”
21 Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
22 At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
Even a robot knows these things are only temporary. Jesus speaks of this dilemma in Matthew 6:19-21.
19 “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
Are you spending your precious moments collecting earthly treasures, or eternal ones? Choosing to trust God first every day, in every area of your life, is a process, just like other spiritual disciplines. Thankfully, God understands that better than we do.
Questions:
Do you have a problem with shtuff? Is your shtuff more important than people? More important than Jesus? Why is your shtuff overly important to you?
Next Steps:
Consider why your shtuff matters so much to you. Evaluate the real costs: time, money, relationships, priorities, and space. Read what the Bible says about materialism and wealth. Then pray over how you can give generously.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I confess to you an unhealthy desire for shtuff often creeps up and attempts to grab me. Thank you for giving me the desire and ability to seek you first through your precious Son, Jesus Christ. May you be magnified in me and through me as I live a life of genuine contentment with undying gratitude for you. May generosity toward others flow through me, both in word and deed. Help me see opportunities to share your extreme generosity to me with others so that you receive the glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
John 16:33
"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
This post was written by Karen Peck, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.