In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley
February 15, 2007 – Putting Aside Childish Ways – Matthew 6:19-20
Welcome to the In Touch devotional. Have you ever noticed how some people, both adults and teenagers, tend to define themselves by how they compare to their peers? Personal assessment is often based on questions such as, Do I own the types of clothing, electronic gadgets, cars, and houses that others have? Am I as popular or successful as my friends? Sadly, many people fail to give up these childish ways, which can sabotage their relationships.
One example is when we confuse security with what we own. This kind of attitude leads us to work longer hours or to pressure our spouse to do so. Since material things can’t bring lasting security, our search for fancier, newer, or additional possessions doesn’t end. Tensions can build in our relationships if we're never satisfied. But finding security in our position as God’s adopted children (Ephesians 1:5) can set us free from materialism. That way, we’ll be able to serve God regardless of our financial circumstances.
Another example is when we believe we are failures. When we think this way, we crave affirmation but often reject it as unbelievable. Success in business or personal life does not really change our opinion of ourselves. Neither does affirmation from loved ones. Eventually, friendships and marriages suffer under the weight of our negativity. Romans 8:16-17 tells us that God chose us and made us co-heirs with His Son, Jesus. Our value comes from belonging to Him.
The Lord wants us to acknowledge our childish thought patterns, surrender them to Him, and intentionally embrace what He has said about us. Begin to take these steps now to move yourself toward greater spiritual maturity.
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