A field goal accidentally made in the opposing court may be funny to watch, but game rules dictate that such a shot will be counted for the opponent. Truly a waste of energy and opportunity to win a game.
When we work so hard to attain things only the Lord can give us, we could be likened to a basketball player who keeps on shooting baskets at the wrong hoop. No matter what we do, how much money we earn, how physically attractive we get, and how much power or influence we amass, we can never fill the void in our heart that can only be occupied by our Savior Jesus Christ.
As present day believers we can see this truth around us. Wealthy people cannot stop themselves from trying to grow their wealth more at the expense of family relationships, health, and even their sanity. The powerful cannot experience the true meaning of being secured hence they surround themselves with body men, invest in safety and security, and even go to the extent of eliminating those who may threaten their influence and existence. If they only knew that only a true relationship with Jesus can give them contentment and true security.
At the level of ordinary people like us, we go to lengths to please others just to get their approval. Some of us even project a faux perfect life to the detriment of our finances — just to feel that we are part of the crowd. And like wealthy people working for more wealth, we also enslave ourselves to our jobs or our businesses to build financial security for our families. All these without realising that we are no longer spending enough time with our children, and that we are already comprising our marriage, health, and other significant relationships.
If only we realise that only God can fill that void, and only a total surrender to Christ, and a life of worship will reboot our minds to knowing what truly matters.
“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:31-33
When we seek God first, by surrendering our life to Him and growing our faith day after day, we will realise that God is all we need. He is a God who calls us by name, who has plans for us, and will never abandon us. He is faithful enough to be with us as we endure inevitable difficulties in our life. He is for us, not against us, and because of this He longs to bless us.
“But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him” 1 Corinthians 2:9
And while the abundant life that Christ Jesus offers is not tantamount to the worldly prosperity marked by treasures, pleasure, and power — the lifestyle Jesus offers to us is the kind of life that even the wealthiest cannot have, and the most wicked cannot destroy. He gives us blessings that money cannot buy and the world cannot take away.
What are these? Peace of mind knowing that we are pleasing in God’s eyes; the assurance that we will go to heaven; the everyday guidance and presence of God in our lives; and the time and ability to make meaningful memories with loved ones that they will cherish long after we have joined our Creator.
“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever.” Ephesians 3:20-21
So wouldn’t you want to make sure that you are making that field basket in the right hoop? Re-commit your life to Jesus today, make every effort to grow your faith, and live a life of worship.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Matthew 6:25-34 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Are you shooting at the wrong hoop?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for inviting us to come to you, and be nourished by you. Truly, only you can satisfy our souls, and give us the approval, contentment, security, and love we long for. Amen.
