A bumper sticker on the back of a Jaguar caught my attention. It read, “How does it feel to want?” As I thought about all the implications of that bumper sticker, I was reminded that God gives us material things not to make us arrogant or to give us a feeling of superiority over others but in order that we might express our gratitude to Him from whom all blessings flow.
God does not bless us so that we can flaunt our blessings in front of those who are less fortunate and have a tough economic road in life. God blesses us so that we can in turn be a blessing to others. After all, we are accountable to him for what we have and what we do with what we have.
Material things are at best temporary. What we have today can be taken away or destroyed in seconds. Just think of those who lost everything they had in recent floods in North Carolina. Or think of those whose homes have gone up in flames in our Western States and even in Western North Carolina. There is no security in things that are made by man.
The Bible teaches that life does not consist of what one possesses but rather in what possesses us. It makes little difference whether we drive a Jaguar or a broken down Chevrolet. The only difference between a Jaguar and a broken down Chevrolet is how much the owner is able or willing to pay for transportation. Both vehicles serve the same purpose.
What really matters in our lives is whether or not we are grateful, whether or not we use what we have for the Glory of God and the benefit of others and whether or not we acknowledge that all of life’s gifts are from God.
The same God who gives can take away. The same God who blesses can withhold the blessing. When all is said and done, only that which cannot be taken away matters for eternity.
This Thanksgiving and everyday be thankful for what you have. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Live each day with an attitude of gratitude and reach out to those in need.
In His Love, Charles
