May 12, 2026

Have you ever wondered why the world offers so many lovely distractions? From sports to blockbuster movies to political races. Wars, recessions and royal drama. These events, when we follow them, keep us from focusing on God, doing good works, and living the peaceful and productive lives we are meant to live. Unless we purpose to keep our attention on God, to spend prayer time with Him, we will be pulled into the issues of the world.

Most of us know the driving force behind most fads, crazes and trends is money. Profit. If we follow fashion, if we believe clothing is a reliable gauge to the talent or character of an employee or friend, we become a great friend to the garment industry. If we follow financial numbers and Wall Street, if the stock market is the first thing we check in the morning, we have already chosen to serve money instead of God. Advertisers want us to want things. A lot of things. All the things. New cars, big homes. Boats. Trips. They want to turn your focus away from God and ignite a fire of materialism inside you.

We do not have to play that game. Life can be satisfying. Happy. We can feel the joy that comes from serving others. We can find peace, joy, and patience. When we remain focused and deliberate with God, when we choose to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we can achieve amazing things.

Father, forgive me for the times I have turned away from the Word and have tuned into the world. There is nothing there for me, Lord. I know that. It’s just that all those clothes look nice and the cars look sleek and all the people driving them on tv seem to be important. Help me to see the smiles on the faces of children who have just been fed, on elderly people who have found safe shelter, and freedom on those who have been bound in addiction. May I always find true love and comfort serving You.

I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have placed before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants. Deuteronomy 30:19