I Do Not Give To You As The World Gives Pt2 - Thursday 22 June 2006
Sshhh – Keep it quiet! Don’t shout it out! But I have a confession to make. Yes it’s true – I actually enjoy shopping.
We talk of Retail Therapy don’t we? Going out and blowing money to make us feel better when life has been difficult. And yes, I can’t deny I see that pattern from time to time in myself. Treating ourselves can make us feel good – at least for a time… until we next check our bank balance!!
I think there are few things I’ve bought that have offered unalloyed pleasure. I’ve sometimes discovered something nicer for the same price (if only I’d bought that!), sometimes something I’ve really liked gets damaged quite quickly or I’ve realised that what I’ve bought doesn’t do all I expected to and felt disappointed.
I think without exception the “feel good” the world gives has faded – it never lasts. But then Jesus always said what the world offers us will fade and ultimately disappoint:
Mat 6:19-21"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
The world gives fleeting peace, but it doesn’t last, it’s escapist. If we go off for a spa day or massage (if that’s your thing) it’s probably great while it lasts but the hassles await us as soon as we’re heading home.
The peace of God is different. It comes not when we seek to hide away from the difficulties of life – but when we confront those difficulties with eyes of faith. It is peace in and through the ups and downs – not just when we can hide from them or forget them.
So how can we know peace through the hard times? Firstly, know and believe that Jesus wants to give you peace, and he does not give as the world does. Secondly, confront your troubles with eyes of faith:
(Phi 4:6-7) “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” | 