Cornerstone

Matthew 19:16‑22 (22)

He drove me down the streets of the exquisitely exclusive neighborhood in one of his new BMWs.  He showed me the streets that were named for his children.  He told me of his investments.  He made sure that I felt insignificant by telling me how with his doctorate he had gained fortunate and notoriety. He assured me that now that I had my doctorate I should go back to school and get a doctorate that would make me some money. He scoffed when I made mention that there must be a lot of millionaires in that neighborhood in order to own the houses I admired.  “What’s a million,” he said and drove into the drive of his palatial property.

I have often thought of that visit with my friend.  And yet I can’t block out memories of the time I met the same man in an expensive hotel so that he couldn’t unburden his heartache.  He had lost his wife, his children were not turning out as he had planned, and the story of hurt continued.  The saddest part of this story is that this man was the son of a holiness preacher, knew God’s desire for his life and yet chose prestige, property, possession and popularity instead.  He had it all and yet he had nothing.  True value isn’t preceded by a dollar sign.

by Dr. Gayle Woods

I Kings 3:5‑15 (11)

An online survey asked the question, “If a genie would grant you three wishes, what would you ask?”  Some of the responses were:  One respondent requested 1) Enough money to live comfortably for the rest of my life 2) For me and my family to live happy, healthy long lives 3) For me to be successful in everything I try.  Another asked for 1) $10,000,000.00 2) A tenure-track job when I finish my degree. 3) A car with an automatic transmission.  Probably the most intelligent response in the survey was 1) Nothing…I don’t trust genies.

Solomon had a similar experience.  He was given a blank check by God.  If he wrote in the right amount God would sign the check.  Solomon was granted his wish because he selflessly asked for wisdom that would help him successfully accomplish the ministry God had given him.  At that time in his life, his priorities were right.  How about you?  Your choices concerning what you buy, what you do in your spare time, and your lifestyle are the priorities that are guiding God’s participation in your work of ministry.  How are you doing?

by Dr. Gayle Woods