Nothing lasts forever

“The world is passing away, along with its desires; but whoever does the will of God remains forever.” 1 John 2:17 BSB

Nearing the end of my run early yesterday morning, I looked to the side of the trail I was traveling on just in time to notice a large TV that had been thrown out as garbage some time ago; shattered in pieces no doubt as it hit the ground after a good heave ho. And as I considered the way the televison had met its' final demise, I couldn’t help but think about how, at one time, this expensive electronic device had been valuable to someone. Someone who had no doubt sacrificed their hard earned time and money to acquire it. And now it was worth nothing to them and would lay where it was tossed aside until it eventually rotted away or was cleaned up. “Wow God,” I thought to myself. “Thank you for the reminder that nothing we possess or could ever possess will last forever. All the things we think are important in this life will wear out, rust away, rot, or become outdated and useless no matter how highly valued, important and relevant they were when we set out to acquire them."

But you know, there is one thing the Bible tells us will remain until the end of eternity... "whoever does the will of God." Is that amazing or what? That means the person who is living every day to please God and to do His will rather than chasing the earthly pleasures their heart craves or desires—something that is much easier to do when we remind ourselves that even the most treasured and coveted possessions this world might be able to provide us is only temporary—will have eternal life. 

So make every effort to live for Christ today my friend. Run away from any longing that is more important than your longing to follow Him, keeping in mind that this "world is passing away, along with its desires" and that only the person who "does the will of God remains forever." And remember... nothing, and I mean nothing, on this earth lasts forever. Which means nothing on this earth, and I mean nothing, is worth trading eternity for.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that life is fleeting at best and that our possessions are even more so. Cause us to value our relationship with You as the most important thing we could ever possess so that it would be the thing we pursue with all our heart, mind, body and soul. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

You never change - Austin Stone