Each week, we share a devotional from one of our partners. This week’s devotional is by ReJohnna Mitchell-Owens.
The Word:
“And He said to His disciples, ‘For this reason I say to you, do not worry about your life, as to what you will eat; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing…For all these things the nations of the world eagerly seek; but your Father knows that you need these things. But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you.'” Luke 12: 22-23, 30-31 (NASB)
The Story:
At one point in my life, I found myself seated in the middle of my brother’s bathroom floor weeping. I was asking the Lord for clarity and guidance. Previously, I had packed up my belongings and moved to the big city with hopes of a fresh start and a real chance to make decisions for myself, uninfluenced by others. I was living with my brother, sleeping on the couch, and that bathroom became my place of solitude; a place where I could be my most vulnerable before the Lord. My constant prayer was that He provide me with an income that would afford me independence. In just three months, He delivered. He delivered abundantly. I finally was in my own apartment and started a career I enjoyed. Then, all of a sudden, that was not enough. I became engrossed in what my peers were accomplishing and experiencing.
I grew dissatisfied with what I had and I drew further and further away from the Lord. I became so distracted by the things of this world that I found myself in a depressive mood, and rather pessimistic. Weeks went by and I refused to read the Word, attend church, or even pray. Finally, I was so low and had exhausted all other sources, I turned to the Word. Reading God’s Word allowed me to refocus on where I was in that moment and remember where I had been just six months ago. I was so ashamed of my ungrateful thoughts and actions. I continued to read and pray, and the more I did, the more I was able to focus on God. The more I focused on Him, the more I was no longer concerned with the things of this world. The more I took no mind to the things of this world, the more He was able to work in my life to shape a new perspective about what was truly important in this life. Everything in this world is quickly fleeting, but it is the love of Christ and the gift of salvation that will last now and through eternity.
The Reflection:
What are we focusing on? Have we forgotten how the Lord has provided for us? Do we find ourselves coveting our friends’ possessions? Do we concern ourselves with what the world deems important? Are we grateful for our lives and counting more blessings rather than wants and desires?
The Application:
This week, let’s remember that the Lord is faithful and always worthy to be praised. Let us be reminded that it is a fatal mistake to assume that God’s goal for our lives is worldly prosperity or success. Whenever we find ourselves in a spirit of wanting more than we have been provided with this season, let’s think of what truly matters, which is the Kingdom of Heaven and our relationships with the Lord.
The Prayer:
Lord, in a society where it is so easy to become distracted by material things and worldly desires, help us to remain focused on You. Thank You for being so gracious and merciful. Forgive us when we fail to remember all of the many ways You have kept us, protected us, provided for us, healed us, and loved us. Lord, allow us to continue to be encouraged by Your Word and Your promise to provide all of our needs. Help us to seek you first and in all of our ways acknowledge You. Amen.
