The Hindrance

  Someone once asked me, “What do you see as the greatest hindrance to the cause of Christ in America today?” “What keeps people from finding and embracing Eternal Truth?”  Perhaps the most obvious hindrance to finding Truth in America is Materialism (never satisfied that one has enough stuff).  Americans tend to define success, not as having all that they need, but as being able to obtain all that they want.

  Scriptures confirm that our attitude toward the “stuff” of this world has a direct bearing on our desire for, and comprehension of, eternal Truth.  God tells us, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (1John 2:15).  And why must it be either/or?  Because, “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (the things money will buy). (Matthew 6:24)”  To strive for the best in both realms is a sure way to find satisfaction in neither.

  If you would know Truth, and the God of Truth, you would do well to hold the things of this world very loosely.  After all, “…a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. (Luke 12:15)  God has made it easy for us to adjust our priorities, by issuing this wonderful promise, “...seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33).”

 Dear friends, I’m not suggesting that we dispose of all of our earthly belongings and take a vow of poverty, but without a doubt, the most satisfying life is the one you were created to live—a life that includes God, and the things of God.  The “stuff” of earth pales in significance when one starts to accumulate the treasures of heaven, “…where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: (Matthew 6:20).”  

  Don’t allow the things of this world to deny you the joys of knowing the God of Truth, and His trove of eternal treasures.  Let go, and live!