Painted Concrete

Being in the center of God’s will for your life is where those things worth holding onto are found.

I had a dream last night that I was being presented with a special statue. I was told this statue was made of precious stone, and I waited while the artists finished carving it. Based on the pomp and pageantry of the makers, I got the feeling it was rich with worldly esteem and perhaps even spiritual significance. But when I had the first opportunity to grab hold of it, I noticed it was just painted concrete underneath. Having brought this to their attention, they carved deeper and it broke into pieces.

WORDLY IDOLS vs. God’s goodness

I wonder what worldly idols my heart is fixed on today that might just be broken concrete on the inside? Some false picture of ease and happiness, or maybe the attainment of worldly accomplishment and accolades?

Grasping at idols only leaves us holding dust. Meanwhile, according to God’s word, living right where God has planted us and seeking His goodness in the midst of it all is where life is found. The journey God has carved out for you and me is by design, and while not easy, there are moments and memories of precious and enduring worth for us at every step along the way, treasures worth holding onto, if we’ll trust God enough to live with open hands.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer. 29:11

“You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” Heb. 10:36

“Now may the God of peace...equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Heb. 13:20-21