Oh, “stuff.” We are bombarded with messages of how we need “stuff.” “Stuff” can be the latest gadget, a newer car, a bigger house, a padded bank account, the latest fashions…and on and on. It’s all just temporary “stuff.” And when we get ourselves too focused on accumulating it, we can lose sight of what’s eternal.

Every now and then it’s wise to do a time and focus inventory. Where am I investing the majority of my energy and attention? Is it on things above, or things of earth? Now, of course we need to make a living! I’m not suggesting that quitting one’s job and spending the whole day reading the Bible is what everyone needs to do. There is blessing and reward in hard work. But contemplating my spending—both monetarily and emotionally/spiritually—can help my heart stay tuned to His ways. In the long run, which will benefit me the most: a) a new car; or b) a deeper relationship with Jesus?