Of Lasting Value
1 Chron. 29:15 (NLT)
We are here for only a moment, visitors and strangers in the land as our ancestors were before us. Our days on earth are like a shadow, gone so soon without a trace.
2 Cor. 3:5 (NLT)
It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success come from God.
Luke 12:13-34 (NLT)
Luke 12:15 (NLT)
Then he said, "Beware! Don't be greedy for what you don't have. Real life is not measured by how much we own."
Luke 12:21 (NLT)
"Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God."
1. A rich relationship with God is something that will give us eternal and lasting value!
2. A rich relationship with God is one that is slowly cultivated
Practice the awareness of God’s presence everyday by directing our focus back to Him in increasing measure
Luke 17:20-21 (NIV)
Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, [21] nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you."
Adjust our hearts and hearing towards God at more intervals throughout our day
Romans 12:2 (Msg)
Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Spending time talking and listening through devotions
[27] "Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.
[30] These things dominate the thoughts of most people, but your Father already knows your needs.
3. Ultimate security comes from prioritizing our relationship with God first, who will then take care of all our needs – and not the reverse.
Luke 12:31 (NIV)
But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
[34] Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.
4. Invest in a rich relationship with God and prioritize what God values, for whatever we choose to invest our hearts in will dominate our lives.