The Time to Choose is Now

Why do we lust after “better” things than what we've already been given? Why do we fight with others, saying if I can't be happy no one else is going to be happy? When we let our own desires take over, we're accepting the ways of this world into our lives and God can't tolerate that. He's a jealous God and wants us all in for Himself. With greater gifts comes greater responsibility. God's not going to let everyone that prays to Him win the lottery because He knows how it will corrupt your spirit, tempting you to be selfish instead of compassionate.

Think about it. What are your intentions when you pray? Why do you ask the things you ask for? Who would be benefitting from your granted request? Would it be yourself? Would others only get a minor portion of the gift? When you ask God for a better job or a raise in your current one, what would you do with the extra cash? Would you use it wisely, investing it for GOD's Kingdom, or would you instead go buy that new pair of shoes or new tablet you've been drooling over?

It's time to stop cheating on God. You can't straddle the fence and play both sides, God vs. the world. It's time to stop listening to the temptations of the devil and tell him to run away because you're a child of God who's sick of all the pointless jealousy and fighting over the most minuscule things, blown out of proportion so much they make the headline news.

If you've been struggling with this, today is a great day to tell God that you're ready for a change in attitude. You're ready to start realizing the many gifts you already have and start using them for His glory. You're ready to start listening to God's Spirit, living within your heart, so that you'll extend the love of God to others, the love He's graciously given you even when you didn't deserve it. Trust that He knows you better than you know yourself and that He's providing for everything you need to help those around you. When your ministry grows and God see's your faithful attitude, He'll grant you even more gifts to further His cause of sharing His message of grace.

- Thoughts from James 4:1-12

encounter: With what you currently have, how are your gifts and talents being used for His glory?