Needs

TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:3-6; Matthew 6:19-34
Needs. What are our needs? I think the answer you get will depend on who you ask. Do you need new clothes? Do you need that car? Do you need the latest (fill in the blank)?
You may be asking, "What in the world does that have to do with serving God?" The answer in a word...everything. What we "need" determines our god.
One of the definitions of worship is "One that is worshiped, idealized, or followed." Read that again. Do you see the central focus of a god? It's all about who or what is controlling your life. Not in a overpowering way (although that is often the way little "g" gods work), but in the sense of providing direction.
We have plenty of gods today. Want some evidence?
Does the kind of car we buy control our spending?
Does the clothing that stars wear impact our purchasing?
Does fitting in with our friends impact how we act?
Does having the "right" name brand affect what you own?
Do the lifestyles of famous people change your attitude towards sin?
Does the music you listen to impact your decisions?
You may not relate to any of these. You may relate to some of them. You may relate to all of them. If you need to, create with your own list.
What we worship will often change what we "need." Things that were once additional luxuries become needs. And often these needs directly affect our outlook on life. And the reality is that these new "needs" can often drive a wedge between us and God. Once we begin to accept new gods, we need to make room for them. So in the process we reduce God's influence. And eventually God's guidance in our life evaporates.
That is why Jesus warns that we cannot serve two masters. And when the two masters disagree - as God and the world always will - one will eventually have to be removed from the throne. And as wants become needs, our desire for and obedience to God will be gone and the new master we have selected will climb onto the throne. And then our ability to impact this world for the Kingdom is gone. Who or what is sitting on the throne in your life? Is it time to overthrow
a false leader to make room for the King of Kings?

shine!
Jason