If the absence of possessions would guarantee contentment then every poor, underprivileged family in America would be the envy of our populace. If merely having less – meant having more – we would all be tempted to unburden ourselves from the weight of material things.

The key isn’t in what you possess it is what possess you! After all, it is possible to have much and be content if your true trust is in the Lord.

Are you content with what you have? Oh, I know everyone needs to have a desire to improve his or her situation if possible. But, I mean do you “lust” for more with an unhealthy appetite that causes you to covet what others have and purpose in your heart to match or beat their level of material possessions? Are you in this insatiable race for more to the extent that you do not see the blessing of what you already possess?

If that monster has you by the neck you must re-evaluate your life. It carries a poison that injects a horrible fear of man directly into your spirit. It clouds your judgment with a fearsome uncertainty and hinders your walk with the Lord.

None of us like the prospect of poverty and that is not what I’m suggesting. What I am saying is look around your life. Respect what the Lord has done for you and honor Him with your trust and faithfulness.

I am convinced if we become truly aware of the abiding presence of the Lord (Who is ever with us) the “controlling power” of possessions and the “destructive fear” of man will lose their overwhelming influence in our life.

Add up the value of all you possess and juxtapose the value of your walk with Jesus and you will understand the true cost of allowing possessions to control your life.

Your life in Christ is the most valuable “possession” you have – don’t trade it for anything!

No man is as poor as the man who walks outside the grace and love of Jesus.

I pray the Lord blesses you today.

Warmly, in His love and life,

Roland Scroggins

© 2006