Ecclesiastes 4:8 NIV
“There was a man all alone;
he had neither son nor brother.
There was no end to his toil,
yet his eyes were not content with his wealth.
‘For whom am I toiling,’ he asked,
‘and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?’
This too is meaningless-
a miserable business!”
How often do I check on-line, compare prices and even read all of the reviews?
Quite often!
It’s the most convenient and expeditious way to shop now a days. Internet access is priceless.
Free shipping and discount notices are enticing.
I’m well acquainted with reputable, on-line shops, take delight in purchasing trendy gifts, totes and fashionable accessories, and even get elated by book releases of an author.
“I need this”, I often tell myself.
There have been plenty of empty boxes at the end of the day!
An empty soul…
“I said to myself, “Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good.” But that also proved to be meaningless.”
Ecclesiastes 2:1 NIV
Material possessions have never fulfilled the passion of my soul and never will.
After the shopping cart is submitted and items are delivered, the shopping experience ‘pronto’ fades away.
Quick pleasures are temporary and meaningless!
The quest for material possessions will never satisfy anyone’s soul.
Our souls are sculptured by God’s unfailing love and compassion. When we are embraced in His arms alone, our souls will then be exhaustively satisfied.
When tempted to visit another web site, “Have I spent quality time with my Creator? Have I prayed for God’s wisdom and direction?”
If the temptation is irresistible, stop and pray.
Perhaps, wait a day or two.
I bet our perspective changes once we surrender our cravings and desires.
We may never have multiple, empty boxes at the end of the day to be recycled ever again.
Have I used ‘facetune’ app to erase wrinkles on my face?
Guilty as charged!
There will always be an opportunity to fix our ‘looks’ on the app. by just clicking different features.
‘click’ red eyes are fixed, ‘click’ wrinkles are faded, ‘click’ teeth are whiter than ever, ‘click’ textures are smoother and even another ‘click’ 10-15 lbs. are instantly off!
Magazines and TV commercials highlight the latest trends of beauty products.
Have I used anti-aging products?
Guilty as charged!
As a matter of fact, I’ve found the best products for facial ‘aging’ spots in the market recently. Yes! I’m quite aware of the aging process… Loss of hair, belly fat, grey hair, aging spots, flabby arms just to mention a few!
Exercising our bodies, and eating healthy promote wellness. Just know, our hearts need most of our attention.
Guarding our hearts from negative emotions will enhance our quality of life. Don’t allow anger take root in your heart.
Have we asked ourselves lately?!
Am I resentful or forgiving? Am I judgmental or understanding? Am I hateful or loving? Am I selfish or giving? Am I angry or compassionate?
If we are experiencing negative emotions today, let’s pray for God’s perspective, renew our minds quickly and pray for healing of our tender hearts.
1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, “People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
‘Please Lord, give me a fresh perspective on aging and most importantly heal all matters of the heart. Give me a fresh perspective on gray hair very soon! I don’t want to be ‘guilty as charged’ on my next birthday…’
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Journaling a Bible verse or two! 