Monday, November 24, 2008

What Do You Treasure?





“Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.” Matthew 6:21



Before my chronic illness I used to think about how I wanted more money so I could have a bigger home, travel around the world, buy anything I wanted whenever I wanted. It’s amazing how our treasures can change when illness comes along. Now my thought regarding money is to have enough to pay for my medical expenses every month! More importantly, my treasures have become more simple, things that money cannot buy.

First, I have a greater appreciation for my family. I treasure every moment I have with them by trying to make a conscious effort to tell them every day I love them, but most importantly, show them by being available, having a listening ear, try to speak kindly to and about them.

Second, I try not to dwell on things I do not have, like good health, wealth, etc. Instead, I try to appreciate what I have today, right now in the present. If I am having a hard time thinking of something good, all I have to do is turn on the news, read something on the internet, or a blog and I always find someone that is far worse off than I am. I get a quick reality check and say a prayer for the needs of others and praise the Lord for what I have right now.

Last, but certainly not least, I think more about what the Lord has done for me and most importantly what He has in store for me! By His gracious gift of salvation through faith, He has given me love, peace, hope, joy, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, self-control, and faith beyond measure. What does He have stored for me? Everlasting life in a mansion surrounded by streets of gold breathing celestial air in a perfect brand new body that will no longer feel pain, illness, or sorrow- forever with my loved ones.

Has my treasure changed? You bet – and I wouldn’t trade my treasure for all the wealth and money this world can offer! How about you? Where is your treasure today?

Dear Gracious Heavenly Father, thank you for the greatest treasure of all, everlasting life through your precious Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to treasure what is truly important and leave the rest in your most capable hands. Amen.

8 comments:

luvmy4sons said...

Amen. Great thoughts. I have come to realize that I have put a lot of emphasis on peace and tranquility and happiness by way of happy circumstances. God has been showing me that He is all in all...that there is joy in EVERY circumstance...that seeking the easy untroubled way is in itself an idol. Blessings to you this day.

MJ said...

Wonderful post...as I get a little older, I am finding my treasures are really changing. My joy and happiness comes from having time with God and spending time with my kids/grandkids. I also find much joy in reading and learning from blogs such as yours! Bless You!

He & Me + 3 said...

Loved this post and such a wonderful time to post it. I have learned to be content, thankful & treasure what the Lord has blessed me with too. I am trying to teach that wonderful concept to my children as well.

Anonymous said...

Amen to your post! I am new to it so I am trying to play catch up.

My treastures have changed too.

Its been a pleasure to read your blog!

Denise said...

Such a beautiful post.

Debra Kaye said...

Michele,

I've missed you! Since Jay's surgery, I've been playing catch up in blog land.

This was incredibly uplifting. And oh so true. When we have an eternal perspective, all things change...especially those things we treasure.

I pray you are feeling well and I pray Marsha is having a blessed time. I'm off to see her next.

((hugs)) to you!!

Jennifer said...

I treasure my freedom to worship my Lord and Savior first and foremost.

Second...I treasure my family...my husband, children, grandson and mother...and their health.

Third...I treasure and seek a simplified life without all the fuss, "things" and headaches.

P.S. You've been tagged over at my place...come on over and play along.

http://ordinarychristianwomansheart.blogspot.com/

Blessings,
Jennifer

Anonymous said...

amen! wonderful thoughts. Thank you for sharing this posting. I am really blessed. I also want to make everything count.

God bless you.

Have a great day!