It happens every few years. I finally reach a place of contentment because I think I've got the fashion thing down. But then I find out that what I'm wearing is actually out-of-date. Not that I'm seeking some ultimate state of "coolness." I just don't enjoy hearing stifled laughter or gasps of disbelief when people see what I'm wearing. So, I now let my wife, Julie, select my wardrobe. I also encourage my kids to give me clothes for Christmas, and seek their input when buying a new pair of glasses.
But as I said, it never lasts. Clothing styles seem to change before I'm aware of it. I have similar struggles in other areas - computers, for example. When I bought my computer four years ago, it ran like lightning, processing information at what seemed then to be an inconceivable rate. No longer. I now groan weekly as I read the Sunday ads to see how much more computing power I could have bought if I had only waited.
It's a subtle but pervasive temptation. Sometimes I really think that my life will be more fulfilling if I just get some more stuff. Whether clothes, computers, cars or careers, the root issue is the same. I am serving an idol - the desire for things.
The things of this life have a peculiar ability to engage our hearts. Computers frequently expose this idol in my life. Have you ever sat down to a new computer game or software program, only to look up "a few minutes" later and find that an hour has passed? Or two hours ... or three! I can't count the times that has happened to me. Sadly, we don't often relate to God with a similar passion. When's the last time you lost track of time while worshiping God?
Jesus said, "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:31-33).
"Seeking first His kingdom" means, among other things, that my heart is drawn more strongly to explore the majesty of God than the inner workings of my computer. It means that my idle moments are more often spent reflecting on God's mercy revealed at the cross, than on what new CD I want to buy.
This doesn't mean that we can't enjoy the many things we own, or that God never wants us to improve what we have. But even as I write these words I'm saddened by the innumerable hours I give to pondering how I'm going to add to or update my current possessions.
May the Lord both convict and deliver us from the tragic notion that our lives consist in the abundance of our possessions (Luke 12:15). May we instead realize that the person who possesses God plus a thousand marvelous created things owns no more than the person who possesses God alone.
For His Glory,
Bob
Recommended Resources:
Check out the Song Sampler collection of worship songs from Sovereign Grace Music. This compilation provides a taste of the worship music that Sovereign Grace Ministries has been producing for more than 20 years. Birthed out of the worship in Sovereign Grace Ministries' local churches, these diverse songs are Christ-centered, passionate, and doctrinally rich. Available at the Sovereign Grace Store:
http://www.sovereigngracestore.com/wosa10.html
Dear Timothy: Letters on Pastoral Ministry ... As Paul imparted his wisdom to Timothy through letters, this collection of writings from seasoned pastors contains over 480 years of combined ministry experience. Old and new pastors alike will treasure this compilation of heartfelt advice and nuggets of truth that will guide them through the challenges and joys of their calling in Christ. Contributors include Joel Beeke, Ligon Duncan, Fred Malone, Mark Dever, Tedd Tripp, Ray Ortlund, Jr., C. J. Mahaney, Roger Ellsworth, and others. Available for purchase on the Sovereign Grace Store:
http://www.sovereigngracestore.com/deartimothy.html
At the WorshipGod 2004 conference we learned why and how we should worship God, and God alone, we moved beyond surface debates and got into the heart of biblical worship. We experienced main sessions and seminars that focused on worship theology, practical application, and musical skills. We deepened our passion for God's glory in Christ and increased our ability to express that passion in ways that honor God. Messages are available on CD or as downloadable MP3 files at the Sovereign Grace Store:
http://www.sovereigngracestore.com/worshipgod20041.html
