By MICHAEL T. GJEFLE
Faith Independent Baptist Church, Ontario
Often in life, we hear people who say, “I wish I could win the lottery.” It seems that in our modern world, many equate happiness with material things.
Yet, God’s Word reminds us that “the love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). We are told in the same chapter (1 Timothy 6:8) “and having food and raiment (clothing) let us be therewith content.” Years ago I heard someone define contentment as “wanting what you have.”
Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, said, “For what shall is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26). Have you grasped the truth that God has made us and we are accountable to Him, and our time in this world passes all too quickly?
How wonderful and valuable is the reality of knowing our sins are forgiven, and that we have been saved by God’s grace that is found only in trusting in Jesus Christ as our Savior.
Winning the lottery may bring desired material things, but there is no promise of blessedness. Let us all learn contentment and thankfulness in our lives.
If you are a believer in the Lord Jesus, you have something far better than a lottery win, and that is eternal life promised in Christ and His presence in our lives.
Do you still have your health? Money can provide a doctor, but no doctor can guarantee good health. Recently I spent a morning with my son Jacob, driving to La Crosse and shopping at Harbor Freight. The time with him was priceless. A few days ago, one of our granddaughters, Martha, climbed up on my lap with three books and said, “Read to me, Grandpa.” That was a special treat that cost just a little time.
Oh, may each of us appreciate what we have and seek to know the contentment that God alone can give. That will be a whole lot better than winning the lottery.
