1 Tim 6:17-19 “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” NIV

The Live Oak trees in the Savannah, Georgia area are lovely. Spanish Moss drapes gracefully from almost every limb, adding a special touch of beauty. Occasionally the wind will blow these clumps of moss out of the tree onto the ground. I saw one of those clumps on the ground recently and I thought I would take it home to spread around the tops of my house plants. I shortly discovered an interesting fact: there were many unexpected creatures living in that moss, and they made my collecting effort a futile one.

I wanted the moss, but got more than I bargained for. Sometimes, secular “wants” can be the same. One example is the want of a lovely home. This is a natural, worldly want, and it is easy for the unexpected creatures to appear suddenly, just as they had in the moss. A home is important, but it is the warmth and love that permeates it that should be the focal point, not the visual trappings. It is easy to become overly involved with furnishing and buying accessories. When upkeep and maintenance demand much time, we may be caught in a constant whirl- looking, pricing and buying (sort of like a hamster on an exercise wheel!) . The “to do” list of upkeep and improvements never ends and can be an emotional and financial drain on us.

I believe that is why God’s Word tells us to keep our focus on things eternal, not temporal. When we invest our time and money in eternal pursuits, we can be sure it is well spent. In 1 Timothy 6:17b-19 we hear that all which God gives us is for our enjoyment. These are things to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous, and ready to share.

I pray that we may leave behind the exhausting desires of secular upkeep as easily as I left that clump of Spanish moss in Savannah.

Marion Smith noles65@aol.com