Bible Passages

Read Psalms 145.

11 Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth; Yours is the dominion, O Lord, and You exalt Yourself as head over all. 12 Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all, and in Your hand is power and might; and it lies in Your hand to make great and to strengthen everyone. 1 Chronicles 29:11-12

Devotion

I heard a pastor ask the congregation if they’d prefer to be rich or famous. My gut reaction was to say I am rich. You might not be able to tell if you measure wealth by earthly standards. Money comes and goes. Possessions do, too. My spirit is full. I have never gone hungry. I have been blessed with a roof over my head. I have sufficient clothing for all seasons. For 40 years, I loved a husband who loved me deeply, and honored me often. Despite my parenting, my child grew up to be a responsible, contributing citizen. He married well. His children are finding their way. My life is blessed. My heart is full. I am rich.

As I thought about it, I realized I am famous, as well. Whenever I do God’s will, I imagine an angel is blowing a horn. Another angel is posting a video of my good deed. Another is tweeting about it. When I glorify God in some small way, it is celebrated by the heavenly hosts. When I sow a seed of grace and mercy, everyone in heaven jumps for joy. When I give my last denarius (penny) to help someone, saints and angels sing in joy. When I bring a new soul to Christ, heaven throws a party. All of heaven knows my name. More importantly, God knows my name. He loves me. He wraps me in His loving, protective arms, and keeps me safe. I am famous.

I immerse myself in the ways of God. I study the Bible daily. Nevertheless, sometimes, it takes days or weeks for His guiding voice to penetrate my veil of opinion and bias and worldly training. In the end, I know in my heart what is true and right. I don’t always listen to that still, quiet voice. I keep listening to the voices shouting objections and traditions. That’s why God whispers. When someone whispers, you have to strain your ears to hear them. You have to filter out other noises. You have to focus on the whisperer.

Despite all my human mistakes and faults and weaknesses, I keep coming back to God. Each day, I am more full of God’s love and mercy and grace than the day before. Yes, I am truly rich and famous where and when it counts. Praise God!

Prayer Focus

Rich and famous people of this world.

Prayer

Almighty Giver, thank you for all the blessings you have given me. Thank you for the opportunities to glorify Your kingdom. Help me spread Your love to all the corners of the earth, so everyone can bask in Your grace and love. Let me be a light to those who have many worldly goods, but have not stored up any treasure in heaven. Amen

Final Thought

Wealth and fame are earned.