Today’s Devotional: “What Will You Seek”

God sent a message of courage to Jeremiah’s scribe, Baruch. He was feeling discouraged, saying, “I am overwhelmed with trouble! Haven’t I had enough pain already? And now the Lord has added more! I am weary of my own sighing and can find no rest.” (Jeremiah 45:3)

He was discouraged because he was seeking great and mighty things for himself, and when they didn’t turn out the way he wanted, he had enough.

So, the Lord said, “‘Behold, what I have built I will break down, and what I have planted I will pluck up, that is, this whole land. And do you seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them; for behold, I will bring adversity on all flesh,’ says the Lord. ‘But I will give your life to you as a prize in all places, wherever you go.’” (Jeremiah 45:4-5)

While this is a strong message, it is for those who enter some form of ministry. Are we caught up in the spirit of covetousness, watching other ministries prosper, and when ours doesn’t match up, are we ready to give up?

God’s message, however, is for us not to seek great things, but rather seek great things for God.

The Apostle Paul said, “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” (Colossians 3:23)

Our desire should be much higher than what we can achieve to impress mankind; rather, it should be to impress God, which means putting whatever we want on the back burner and desiring only to serve Him.

Jesus tells His disciples not to seek the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogue, or the pleasant greetings of others. Instead, He says, “He who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:11-12)

So, what should we seek after? “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)