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Entitlements
"And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross!" - Philippians 2:8
Society today has duped many of us into believing that the world owes us. It owes us a good living, a loving spouse, good health throughout our whole life, sexual pleasure when we want it, and paid vacations the rest of our lives. The world has told us if we work hard and do right, we are entitled to these things. This is the Esau perspective on life. For a mere meal, he sold his own birthright for a simple pleasure to which he felt entitled.
Society, and even the Church, is more pleasure-focused than ever before. George Barna, the Christian researcher, cites:
We are not a society that simply enjoys its time off. Our leisure appetites drive us. It is increasingly common to hear people turning down job offers because the hours or other responsibilities would interfere with their hobbies, fitness regimens and other free time activities. Even our spending habits show that playing has become a major priority. The average household spends more money on entertainment than it does clothing, health care, furniture or gasoline. Recreational activities have jumped more than 10 percent in the amount of time given to them. [George Barna, Frog In The Kettle (Ventura, California: Regal Books, 1990), 82.]
What are the motives for our work life? Is it only to gain increased pleasure and leisure time? Jesus said He came only to do the work of the Father. I am sure that Jesus had times of refreshment in His life that allowed Him to get recharged for the mission God called Him to. However, He understood the balance of maintaining mission and play. When we view life with an attitude of entitlements, we are susceptible to becoming disappointed, resentful, and even bitter when our expectations go unmet. Ask the Lord if you need to relinquish any rights that may be hindering your freedom to experience His love and grace.
(Today God Is First [TGIF] devotional message, Copyright by Os Hillman, Marketplace Leaders.)
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MEDITATION
Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank you for my being able to see, to hear, to speak, and to move about today.
I'm blessed because You are a forgiving and understanding God. You have done so much for me. I have witnessed Your hand of blessing, Your miraculous power in my my life and the lives of those I love, and You just keep on blessing me.
Thank You, too, for keeping me, my family, and my church family safe from all danger and harm. Help me to go about this Memorial Day with a positive and Christ-focused attitude and plenty of gratitude. And bless those who serve our country in the different branches of the military, their families and the families of those who have lost their loved ones while serving our country for the sake of freedom, justice and liberty.
Thank You for clearing my mind of distractions so that I can hear from You and listen to You as you direct my steps today. Thank You so much, in Jesus' name, amen.
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