10 Days of Christmas Truths to Live All YearSample

[IMAGE CONTENT] Wise Men: The wise men were just as their name describes: They were the intellectuals of their land. The wise men were the ones whom people of influence sought when they needed counsel. They were respected. They were leaders. They were successful. And as they bowed down to worship Jesus, they laid what was valuable to them at His feet. Let’s not miss this. Talk about a powerful lesson for us! There is only one proper place for our gifts, talents, and treasures: at the feet of Jesus. When our abilities are laid at His feet, they’re at His disposal to use however He sees fit. A posture of worship recognizes God as the One who filled us with the ability in the first place. He receives the praise. He receives the glory. These wise men, though they’d had great worldly success, didn’t try to keep glory for themselves. They weren’t too prideful to bow before a holy God. Success did not change them. But that’s often not the story. It’s all too easy to get wrapped up in the whirlwind ride of earthly success. Before we know it, we’re patting ourselves on the back, rather than bowing at His feet. How do we make sure our heart stays aligned with His? In the same way the wise men did: We prioritize living a life of worship. Worship is more than singing songs; it’s a way of life. Worship is a continuous, daily decision to live in a way that brings more glory to God than blessings for ourselves. Take an honest look at your life. Examine your actions, your thoughts, and your motives. Are you more consumed with living for the things of this life and what’s in it for you right now, or are you focused on living for the eternal? They were wise men, after all. Let’s make the wise choice, too. God, help me to live a worshipful life. No matter what success I have, God, don’t let anything of this world stand between me and You. And God, if anything even begins to threaten my relationship with You, I ask right now that You would strip it away from me. Do whatever it takes to keep my heart aligned with Yours. I love You. Amen.