January 8 Readings: Genesis 19-20, Matthew 6:16-34, Psalm 6:1-6, Proverbs 1:20

Today's Readings: Genesis 19-20, Matthew 6:16-34, Psalm 6:1-6, Proverbs 1:20
(I am experimenting today with links to Bible Gateway, so you can read online if you so desire. The Bible linked to is the Holman Christian Standard Bible, but you can change to just about any version at the site - let me know how this works)

It is so easy to become sidetracked in the Christian life, to focus on the effects instead of the causes, the blessings instead of the Blesser.  In Matthew 6:33, Jesus gives us a command that we need to remember in every area of life.  “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”  God will add to us the necessities of life if we will seek him first, above all things.

So often, we seek the things that do not really matter as much.  We seek riches in this world, but are reminded that there are things more important than money.  We seek pleasure but are warned that worldly pleasures can only satisfy for a time.  We seek recognition and approval of man but need to be aware that ultimately it is the approval of God that matters. 

Too often, I do what I do for all the wrong reasons.  One of my biggest struggles has been with my weight, with maintaining self-control over my desire for food. But my struggle is often motivated by the wrong things. I want to lose weight because I look in the mirror and don’t like what I see.  I want to lose weight to change how others look at me and think of me. I hate that the first thing people think when they see me is, "Wow, that's a fat guy." I also want to lose weight so that I can enjoy life and be healthier. None of these is inherently wrong, but they all fall short of the real motive that ought to drive all I do. 

If my motives are selfish, I will not accomplish kingdom work. I will never be successful in weight loss or anything else as long as it is all about me, my needs, my good and my wants. The goal of the Christian life is simple. 

Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. It's about God. It is about giving him glory. It is about honoring him in all I do, representing him well as an ambassador for Christ. My deepest desire must be to see Jesus enthroned in every area of my life, not just to look better in the mirror. Life is about the glory of God not our own pleasure. 

The good news is the promise of God.  When I seek him and put him first, he will give me what I need every day.  “All these things” will be added to me – the strength and power I need to be all he wants me to be. 

God of Heaven, may I live for you and your glory.  May I seek first your kingdom and the righteousness that flows from it. May I do all I do, including seeking to lose weight, for the motive of glorifying and obeying you!  I trust that you will add to me what you want me to be.