Getting Back to the Basics

There's a song sung by 4Him where the chorus goes something like this:

We need to get back to the basics of life
A heart that is pure and a love that is blind
A faith that is fervently grounded in Christ
A hope that endures for all time
These are the basics
We need to get back to the basics of life

Every now and then, God brings this song to mind -- often at those times when I need some "course correction" in my own life or when things are falling apart at some level on a larger scale.

It's easy, as a pastor, to get caught up in the "need" to address each of life's woes with something specific from Scripture -- how to manage your finances, how to be a good husband, what to do when you're dealing with depression, etc. Of course, all of those things are valid issues, and thankfully God has given us a resource through His Word where -- under the guidance of the Holy Spirit -- we can turn and share with others to help meet those specific needs.

However, I'm reminded of what Jesus said as recorded in Matthew 6:31-33 -- "Therefore do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (NKJV) In the end, it really all does boil down to focusing on the central message of God's kingdom and the gift of His righteousness that He offers to all those who trust by faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.

As we focus on Jesus and His righteousness, we become more and more like Him -- with a heart that is pure and a love that is blind. When we keep our eyes on Jesus and make the decision and commitment to trust Him by faith -- really trust Him so our lives become grounded on that foundation -- then God invariably gives us a hope that endures through everything life can thrown at us.

Today, let me encourage you to seek first our loving Father, His kingdom and His righteousness, and trust that -- no matter what the obstacle or the struggle you are called to endure -- He will take care of your need.