This Matters More Than Money

What really matters
As we come to the end of the year, many people are suffering from the pain of Christmas debt. Others are troubled with the upheavals of the financial markets. Let me remind you of the words of Jesus: "A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." If you understand that truth it will change your life forever.

Real satisfaction is found not in money, but in loving relationships with God, our spouse, children, and friends. Loving relationships are our greatest assets. Most of us could live with less money, and may of necessity have to do so. But, if that helps us focus on relationships, then we still come out winners. Why not have a family 'soup' night - eat only soup and crackers and thank God that you are alive and together.

Do you ever wonder what we did before computers?
I think we played games. I think we had meals together and talked about what was going on in our lives. I think husbands and wives made love, and children felt secure. I think fathers and sons threw the ball in the back yard. I think mothers and daughters made doll dresses. I think we had families.



What if, just for a week, we said "NO" to the computer and the television and said "YES" to the family? What would that look like in your house? You might be surprised. You might even like it. You might even decide to make a New Year's resolution to make family a priority. If so, I think you will have discovered what God had in mind when He instituted the family.

Choose your attitude
Friday will be the last day of another year. Has it been a good year for you? Some of you would say, "Well financially, it hasn't been a good year." Others would say, "When it comes to my health, no, it hasn't been a good year." Unfortunately, many would say, "For my marriage, it hasn't been a good year." Some things are beyond our control. That's true in the area of finances, health, and relationships.

But always we choose our attitude. Will we curse the darkness or will we light a candle? Will we trust God, or rail out in anger? Why not conclude this year by making peace with God, and asking Him for wisdom in how you can best respond to your present situation. Life with God is always better than traveling alone.


Adapted from the A Love Language Minute broadcast for the week of December 27, 2010. Share your questions, thoughts insights, or comments by joining the conversation on Facebook at facebook.com/5lovelanguages.