What Do I Value?

Today’s reading is Acts 20.

Jesus had said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Paul’s heart was clearly in heaven. That is why he was able to walk resolutely into Jerusalem, following the footsteps of his Savior, firmly believing he would die there. His treasure wasn’t in this life. He didn’t value the things of this world. That is why he could say he didn’t covet anyone’s silver or gold. That isn’t what he was about. He didn’t value his freedom or his life. He valued the kingdom. He valued the ministry. He valued the gospel. He valued Jesus. I imagine for him, the most shocking thing was not that he got arrested in Jerusalem, but that instead of dying there like Jesus, he ended up leaving, going to Rome, and eventually being delivered from that particular imprisonment (at least if Philippians and Philemon are any indication). All of this leads to the question I have to ask. What do I value? Where is my treasure? Where is my heart? What about you?

Tomorrow’s reading is Acts 20.

A Word for Our Kids

Hey kids, not only did Paul not value his own life, not only did he not desire anyone else’s silver or gold, he believed Jesus when He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Do you believe that? Would you rather give to others or receive from others? How could Paul even make this claim? Because what he valued the most were the eternal, spiritual things. He didn’t feel the need to hang on to earthly, physical, material stuff. He could enjoy seeing others enjoy the gifts he gave. He could enjoy sacrificing for others because it really wasn’t a sacrifice. It was an investment in what he most valued, eternity. Why don’t you try it this week? Why not give something to others and see if you can develop that spiritual muscle of giving that allows it to be more of a blessing than receiving a gift? Oh, there will be plenty of opportunity for you to be on the receiving end, even Paul received gifts. But now might be a good opportunity to learn the blessing of giving. It will only get harder if you wait until you’re older. Why not try it today?

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