Appreciating The Gain!

I believe that living in a world of "instant" this and "instant" that has played a role in making us a more impatient people; a people who don't want to wait for anything. Though I can remember being happy with how our first computer shaved time off of work I had previously done on a typewriter, I now find myself being impatient when my much faster computer takes thirty or forty seconds to do something. My wife chuckles when she hears me tell the computer, "You're wasting my time!"

When people say, "Time is money.", they are usually urging that time not be wasted. However, the gaining of money can take time and therefore patience needs to be exercised as the goal is being reached toward. The problem is that often what is too quickly gained is not fully appreciated.

Solomon stated. . .
"(21) An inheritance GAINED HASTILY in the beginning will NOT BE BLESSED IN THE END." ( Proverbs 20:21 ESV)

Think about the parable Jesus told of the lost son. ( Luke 15) Did he appreciate the inheritance he demanded to receive now ( Luke 15:12) and then went and squandered away? ( Luke 15:13-14) That inheritance was no blessing then as he found himself longing to be as well fed as the pigs he was feeding. ( Luke 15:16)

Solomon also noted. . .
"(11) Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but WHOEVER GATHERS LITTLE BY LITTLE WILL INCREASE IT." ( Proverbs 13:11 ESV)

Some translations refer to it as having been gained dishonestly or by fraud. However, as one handles whatever is gained wisely, "LITTLE BY LITTLE" it all adds up. As we establish life goals, we should also learn contentment ( Hebrews 13:5; 1 Timothy 6:8; Philippians 4:11-12) and maintain a sense of appreciation for what we have. We are often more blessed than we may seem to indicate by our actions.

The process of gaining in spiritual growth should be viewed similarly, being of greater value than worldly wealth. (note 1 Timothy 6:6-7) As our faith is challenged so as to become stronger and we DAY-BY-DAY gain more knowledge of God and His Will, we continue to mature toward being the people God desires us to become. The gain of anything worthwhile takes effort and time. However, in the end there is blessing when the pursuit is a righteous one. May we continue working toward God glorifying goals. The ways in which God blesses us physically and spiritually can be used in ministry to His glory and praise. The gain we will then ultimately receive from Him will be out of this world!

Have a great day FOCUSED ON THE LORD AS WE ESTABLISH LIFE GOALS!
Carl

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