What Do You Value?
Today's Scripture
"He said to them, 'You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.'" - Luke 16:15 NIV
Thoughts for Today
Earlier this week we looked at Moses and the choices he made. Having all the advantages of a royal family, Moses still chose to identify with his people. He refused wealth, fame, influence, and prestige because he had a sense of direction in his life. Moses had a sense of values based on the promises of God.
In today's society, much is said about values. We hear the terms family values, traditional values, values clarification, values education, and more. A value system includes the social principles and standards by which we function in life. Our value system will be anchored by what we believe to be most worthy in our lives. Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21).
Consider this …
In today's scripture, Jesus gives sobering words to the Pharisees about values clarification. His warning rings just as true today. How often do we value what others say more than what God's Word says? And we can be so influenced by television, movies, magazines . . . and most of all, the Internet. Sometimes almost without realizing what's happening, our values begin to conform more and more to what we are hearing and seeing.
We need to get back to basics. We need to turn to the Bible to remember those things God values most.
What do you value? Are you valuing those things God finds detestable . . . or the things he loves. Have a close look at your value system. Ask God to help you see it the way he does. And then depend on him to help you make adjustments.
Prayer
Lord, as I think about my value system, I realize I've slipped into some gray areas - and even areas that are detestable in your sight. Please forgive me and help me get back on track. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Godly Heroes: A Small Group Study of Hebrews 11 by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This guide presents a step-by-step study of Hebrews 11. It also features the profile of the characteristics of Godly heroes, written in language that relates to today's living. In this guide you will find definitions, characteristics and examples of the heroes' faith life. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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