Restless

Have you ever struggled with this thought in your life: “Is this all there is?” You feel guilty asking that honest question. You are aware that God has blessed you with more material goods than you rightfully deserve.

You have a wonderful family that loves you (including the pets); a career that interests and challenges you. Your health is good. You have friends that make you a better individual. You have a Heavenly Father that always has your best interest at heart.

That should be enough to make anyone content, right? It seems like you are unsatisfied with your life as you wait for the next big event to arrive.

Luke 12:23 (MSG) adds an additional insight into the above question: “There is far more to your inner life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body.”

This verse implies that there is “more” to our existence than just our basic needs. I believe the answer to this challenge is found in Mark 12:31(MSG) “Love others as you love yourself.”

Have you ever noticed that when you are entirely focused on your problems that the world seems rather nasty (and void of joy)?

When you are focused on the welfare of others (whether that’s through volunteering somewhere or even Facebooking encouragement to friends), you get a new perspective on life. (Galatians 5:13)

Take your abilities (what impassions you), and use that to help those in need. Remember, God never intended His creation (you) to live alone away from community. We need each other.

With this new attitude of giving, events around you don’t seem quite as awful as they once were. Your life seems to have more purpose than you ever imagined. Gratitude to God seems to be overflowing out of you to everyone in your circle of acquaintances.

*Inspired by the sermon “We Believe: What Is Your Future?” Pastor Charlene Markarian, April 24, 2016, Eastside Community Church, Gahanna, OH