Barring any unforeseen complications, this is the house we’ll be moving into the beginning of next month. We’re grateful for our time renting a home in Farragut, but it’s time to move on from here, and we’re excited to make this our new home.
At the same time, a lot of my reading over the past few days has been focused on the temporary nature of this life and our stuff. It’s adding some great perspective as we make this transition. The house and stuff that we own is cool, but it can never own our hearts.
Lord, please help me to value obedience to you over my possessions. Protect my heart from being ensnared by temporary stuff.
So, what about you? In the materialistic world we live in, what helps you to remember that it’s all temporary? Any tips?
That is one sweet house! Ker sent me all the pics. Nice twitter logo by the way.
Thanks, Nathan! Yeah, I kind of liked the Twitter graphic turned out, with the little Twitter bird about to be eaten by the T-Rex. :)
Kyle:
Just finished an awesome Bible study at our church on this topic. The study is called “The Treasure Principle” by Randy Alcorn and is based on Matthew 6:19-21. The principle is this: “You can’t take it (treasure) with you, but you can send it on ahead.” It’s the best study on biblical stewardship and giving that I have seen. It includes a giving covenant at the end that is all-encompassing and challenging to say the least. I would recommend it highly.
Here are some of the “keys” Alcorn shares: God owns everything. I’m His money manager. My heart always goes where I put God’s money. Giving is the only antidote to materialism. And lastly – God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving. Great stuff!
Leonard, that’s great stuff. Thanks for posting that here. I’m asking God to renew my heart for giving.
What reminds me that it is only temporary is calling the water heater guy to come and fix the water heater, the termite guy to spray the termites, the squeaky hinges, the crooked steps, the light switch that is wired to nothing, and the refrigerator that sometimes works and sometimes “de-thaws” it’s self in the middle of the kitchen floor. (I will not gaze at glory, but on my Saviors Face.) I can’t wait to come and see the shelter that God has provided for you guys.
In Christ
BJL
Ben, this is awesome! Hahahaha! So true.
I’ve had the same feeling about my physical body as well. I can remember when I had some cavities a few years ago – like a reminder that this body won’t last forever it its current condition.
We are happy for you. It is always good to hear from you, you have ment so much to us. YOur home is beautiful. May God use your new home for His glory. I believe He will. Even though we know these homes here are not our eternal ones, we sure are blessed. Praise the Lord! Herb
Herb, I can’t begin to say how happy I am to hear from you. You’ve been a dear blessing and an encouragement in my life, and I miss seeing you. I hope you and your family are well.
Thanks for the kind words. I am asking God to use this home for His glory – giving it up to Him. Excited to see how that will play out over the upcoming years.
Please share my love with your family.
Howw Cool is that!! Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.
The best part for me is the prayer. Oh that we could all have a heart that can continually yearns for the Lord. God Bless.
Thanks, Brian! Great to hear from you! Yes, I agree with your prayer. Me too!