Saturday, February 3, 2024

Over this past week, we’ve explored what it means to focus on what matters most instead of just focusing on what matters now.

Sometimes, we are our own greatest enemy, sabotaging our efforts of change by looking only at the immediate future rather than long term. This manifests in not taking time to rest, sacrificing relationships, or letting our spending get out of control, thinking these things will make us happy. But in the end, we still feel empty.

Today, I invite you to carve out a few quiet moments to reread the verses that really spoke to you this week. Some possibilities include 2 Peter 1:3 or Galatians 6:7. Then look back on any notes you may have captured over the past few days and reflect on the next steps you took this week.

You may consider making additional notes as you explore the following questions:

Are you prone to choosing immediate gratification over long term satisfaction?

How have these choices impacted your life?

How can you draw closer to God and trust in him more?

Prayer:
Father, thank you for all the good gifts you give me, especially the gift of your Son. Too often, I focus on what matters in the here and now, rather than on what matters most. Give me eyes that look toward the future, and set my heart on things above. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:

2 Peter 1:3
By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence.

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut.