Temporarily Living

Written by Jay Hartwell

Mark 8:36-37
What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?

2 Corinthians 4:18
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Proverbs 23:4-5
Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.

Thoughts:
What does this world really have to offer us? Throughout the years I've learned that life is temporary. Of course we all know that literally life on this earth is temporary, that we are all mortal beings, we all will leave this earth in death. Though what I'm referring to are the things that make up our lives, the things that make us who we are, our self worth and gratifying joys in life that carry us through each day. For each it's different -  some its money or spending money on things that make us happy. Some it's traveling, exploring the world and seeking  adventure. Others it is adventure or risks, putting all on the line to make our bodies rush with adrenaline. For others it could be the closeness of other people, community, family or kids, their love loving you, your love loving them. For some, in a strange way, it's being the victim that circles around to bringing them self worth. The list can go on and on cars, boats, houses, trips, jobs you probably already know what sustains you, what brings meaning to your life. Don't you?

In many ways it's good that we have these things in our lives, but when does it come to a point when the things of this world cause us to forfeit our soul? I would say that there are many today that are living their lives with a forfeited souls. This world has consumed them and has taken them captive. And really who's to blame? This world is all most us of know. In America especially, life can be very easy and comfortable. If you've ever truly experienced  a third-world country, you'll have a better understanding of how true that statement is. Just for a  quick analysis – Our “economic crisis” is forcing many to give up some of their budgets to eating out at nice restaurants, going to the movie's less frequently, maybe even canceling the  subscriptions to several services we have. For some it's losing their house and moving into  smaller houses or with others. And there are some that are more severe. If an “economic crisis” were to occur in a third-world country (by the way many have been living in an economic crisis for years) people would lose their lives to hunger which happens daily and is happen right now. The only personal budget for many people living in these countries, is for food, if that. This is simply reality and the only other mention I'll make on this, Is once we know the realities of the world, we can then take it upon ourselves to do something about it. Don't point fingers or blame someone or other circumstances, simply take it up as your personal goal to do something to make a difference no matter how small or large.

Back to the point. Let's look at it another way, what thing in the world would you give your soul for? Think of something that you just absolutely enjoy doing. Now, if you were given this something, would it stand the test of time? If this thing that brings you joy and happiness were given to you daily or you were able to do it daily, sustain you throughout your lifetime? Will you tire of it? Will it have the same effect on you as it did the first time you experienced it? Does it sustain you now?

For many, I would assume that the things of this world that you picked would not sustain you. That you realized that the joys of what you chose are temporary. They come and go like the mist in the wind. This world we live in is temporary in all ways, do we want to forfeit our souls for it?

Some of you, I'm sure may have chosen “love.” If it is love you chose, think of it now in the pure sense. Think of the true meaning of love, how it happens, where it comes from, how did it ever come into existence? Have you ever wondered how “love” was created or designed? Love in its pure sense, its owner, its creator, is offering it to us in replacement of this temporary world. Love that will stand the test of time and has already proven itself to withstand to this day. This love is eternal, everlasting and ever sustaining. Will you exchange the world for this love?