How organized of a person are you?
We all have that one friend who seems to show up late for events, forget important details, or regularly misplace items. We may be unorganized, but we're not as bad as them!
We also have that one friend who's hyper-vigilant when it comes to the details: they're never late, and it seems as if their life is color-coordinated and broken down into a bullet-point list. We may take organization seriously, but we're surely not that extreme!
These differences can be comical; they can also be frustrating. But more than that, they're beautiful and worthy of praise, because they show off the power and creativity of the Creator (Psalm 139:14).
God has hardwired each of us with unique personalities, bestowed upon us varying spiritual gifts, and sovereignly placed us in unique environments that shape who we become and how we respond to life.
But, despite these personality differences, the Bible makes it clear that we're actually very similar. I would sum it up this way: all human beings live very organized lives, motivated by the pursuit of treasure.
Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." If that's true, then we're not as spontaneous and reactive as we may think. We're living for treasure, and that treasure is a powerful and organizing force in our life.
The question is, what treasures are you pursuing? According to Jesus, there are only two options: treasures on earth or treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-20).
Treasures in heaven can be anything related to our love for, worship of, and obedience to God. That is what the Bible calls “God’s way.” It's the unique lifestyle that shapes the actions, reactions, and responses of a person who acknowledges God’s existence, character, and plan.
Then there are the treasures on earth. When our lives are organized by these, we chase after we want, what we feel like in the moment, and what we tell ourselves we need. The Proverbs says about these treasures, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." (14:12, 16:25)
It's important to recognize the treasure war that's raging in your heart, and consequently organizing your life. Sometimes you'll get it right, and your life will be structured by a pursuit of God and his way. But other times, you'll be driven by selfish cravings, and you'll choose the treasures and the way that seems right to man.
Don't be afraid to confess your misplaced treasures. Your Lord not only offers forgiveness, but freedom as well. It's only when your life is shaped by the pursuit of God and his heavenly treasures that you'll be satisfied and free.
God bless
Paul Tripp
Reflection Questions
- What treasures were most valuable to you this past week?
- How did those treasures organize your time, finances, words, and actions?
- Identify one treasure that God values that you have neglected recently. How can you grow to love that treasure more?