A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional 335

Guiding Scripture:  1 John 2:16 ‘For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father but are from this world. ‘ 

Gimme That!

written by: Torrie Slaughter

When I began my minimalist journey, I knew I would learn a more powerful lesson. And today’s scripture is precisely where I landed a few years ago. The funny thing about worldly stuff is that you need somewhere to put it, either renting a storage unit or purchasing a bigger home. Because capitalism, greed, and lust to be ‘better than’ our neighbors replaced love. 

A Memorable Decluttering Moment

I remember my husband and I reading Berenstain Bear books to our sons. One of my favorites was The Berenstain Bears Get the Gimmies; one would think that is a passing stage in life, but, alas, it is not. In the story, the parents desired to follow their grocery list and stay on budget. No matter how often the parents said ‘no,’ the children continued to find new ways to beg for everything that glittered. Once outside of the store, the family encountered a toy seller with adorable stuffed kittens. Well, the children devised one more plan, and the parents gave in.

Why?

Well, shame, guilt, and embarrassment kicked in as onlookers witnessed the parents not giving the seemingly appreciative and well-manner children what they desired. And pride caused the parents to abandon their original conviction not to purchase additional items. 

Limited Time Only

How often do we covet the sparkling new thing only to discard it later?

The one thing most of us will not pass up is a good sale. If the company reinforces the limited opportunity, it increases our desire for items we probably don’t need. Yet, the Word of God warns us against falling for that temptation. 1 John 2:15 reminds us not to love the things this world offers. That is a point of tension when it comes to our ‘gimme that’ fascination. 

Dear friends, the consequences of our behaviors will manifest in our lives. If we are never satisfied with the number of things we have, the time someone spends with us, or allow Jesus to rule our hearts completely, then we give control to the adversary. In 1 John 2:12-14, the author writes to the mature, young, and children in the faith. By encouraging growth and reliance on the strength of Christ Jesus through Who we receive salvation, God’s Word can live in our hearts. So the next time temptation yells, “gimme that” I pray we can yield to God’s instruction to grow spiritually mature and be content.  

Prayer: Father, your true light is already shining. Please help us to maintain a posture of humility and love as we live out our days. Abba Father, prepare our hearts and quench the thirst of our lusts with your Word. Amen

The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Thursday, December 1, 2022

Daniel 8:1-27, 1 John 2:1-17, Psalm 120:1-7, Proverbs 28:25-26

 Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan