Could some of our everyday habits actually be robbing us of God’s blessings?
Proverbs warns about drunkenness, gluttony, and laziness. We might read those words and immediately think, “That doesn’t apply to me.” But these heart issues can show up in ways that are much less obvious.
What about constantly escaping into our phones, entertainment, food, sports, shopping, or even leisure? What happens when good things become the things we look to for satisfaction, comfort, or escape?
We can end up trading the genuine blessings God has given us—our marriages, families, work, relationships, opportunities to serve, and most importantly, satisfaction in Him—for things that can never truly satisfy.
Also in today’s readings, can God use evil and suffering for good? How can an eternal perspective change the way we see what He allows in our lives?
And while it’s good to appreciate faithful pastors and Bible teachers, Paul has a warning for us: Are we following godly teachers—or are we in danger of following men instead of God?
Have you ever wondered why someone else seems to have everything you’ve prayed and worked for?
Perhaps you’ve watched someone else’s career flourish while yours stalls. Maybe their ministry grows, their children seem to thrive, or their finances appear effortless. Or perhaps you’re simply frustrated because you work hard while others seem to succeed with half the effort.
The temptation isn’t just discouragement—it’s envy.
If we’re not careful, envy can quietly grow into grumbling, complaining, bitterness, and resentment toward both people and God.
Today’s reading in Proverbs exposes the heart behind envy and reminds us that God’s calling isn’t to compete with others but to faithfully serve Him wherever He has placed us. When we trust His wisdom instead of comparing ourselves to others, we discover a contentment the world can never offer.
Is there true biblical prosperity and how does it differ from the popular “prosperity doctrine” preached from many pulpits today? If so, how do we put ourselves in a position to experience it? And what is the danger of believing an unbiblical doctrine concerning prosperity?
As I said last week, keeping clutter under control seems to be a battle I’m constantly fighting. And most of us would agree that clutter can quickly make us feel overwhelmed and disorganized. But could there be spiritual clutter in our lives that creates a whole host of problems? Could it lead to a sense of hopelessness and lethargy and could it hinder our relationships with God?
While I’m sure it’s not an exhaustive list, I suggested eight things that I see as spiritual clutter. Today I’m going to talk about ways to rid yourself of that clutter.
Keeping clutter under control seems to be a battle I’m constantly fighting and sometimes losing. As a friend of my husband’s once said, an open surface just seems to invite you to put something on it. It’s easy to set things on the nearest convenient space thinking we’ll deal with them later. Unfortunately, clutter can quickly make us feel overwhelmed and disorganized. In fact, organizational experts will tell you that the minute or two it takes to put things in their proper place can save you a lot of time and energy later. But what about spiritual clutter? Could spiritual clutter lead to a sense of hopelessness and lethargy in our spiritual lives? Worse yet, could it be hindering our relationships with God?
