What Do You Desire?

 

Perhaps this very question brings forth anxiety as we know that “hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.” (Proverbs 13:12) what we desire and what we look forward to tells us a lot about the state of our hearts. In fact is can reveal our very idols! Right now, as I write this, our family is looking forward to vacation next week. A time when the regular schedule goes out the window and we are able to relax and enjoy each other free of the things that usually take our attention and focus. Even there, that anticipation will be gone the following week as a return to normal schedules and life ensues. Where is your desire today? Perhaps a desire for a change in your circumstances? A change at work? A better this or that? What we desire is important for it reflects the direction of our heart. Truly our hearts are tempted with counterfeits. In, Psalm 73 Asaph writes in verse 25-28:

“Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For behold, those who are far from you shall perish; you put an end to everyone who is unfaithful to you. But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.”

Do you desire God? Do you place your hope and anticipation in Him? Or, if you are like me the issues of life and business of the week crowd out our enjoyment of Him. Is He your strength or are you relying on that “next thing” to come through? Remember, you are not promised tomorrow. The heart that says, “tomorrow Lord” will by no means be satisfied. Trust Him today, turn your affection once again towards the only One who is worthy of those affections. It is good to be near God, He is your rock, your refuge. May our minds reflect on Him, but may our hearts rejoice in Him this day.

 

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” James 4:8a