We’re all seeking something. Even if we don’t realize we’re doing it. We are looking. We’re looking at other people to see if we “fit in”. We’re watching the stock market to see if we’re financially secure enough to take that trip. We’re waiting impatiently on that next ladder climb in our career to give us a more impressive title. The house that we were once thankful for, now is not enough. We want our kids to be the star “whatever”. Status. We’re all trying to measure up and it seems like the bar is getting higher and higher. When does it stop? When do you reach the pinnacle? Who set this worldly standard anyway? The human race did. When are we ever going to learn? All of these wild goose chases will result in emptiness! Humanity is broken down and severely flawed. Our very best is still not good enough. I don’t mean to sound discouraging. Quite the opposite. I want to bring the good news of relief. 

Jesus told them, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.” (‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭29‬ NLT). People in Jesus’ day were committing the same acts of humanity we do now. They were looking for provision. They were concerned about their personal needs. They were trying to live up to the standards etc. Jesus basically said, “stop all the working and just believe in me.” He knew that all of their plans and schemes were centered around “self” and were never going to bring the peace they were searching for. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need (‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ NLT). That’s it! That’s the secret to a life well lived. Quit worrying about “My kingdom” and focus on His!

First of all, I’m not the king. I crown myself every time I have to get my way. Then, things get tough in the striving and I cry out to the Lord. Take this crown! You’re the real King! Things start moving smoothly and I, again, slip the crown back on my head. Over and over this destructive pattern goes. Wouldn’t it be so much more simple to let the real King wear His real crown forever? Wouldn’t it just be easier to be a citizen of Heaven and let Jesus direct my paths? Of course! Keep in mind though, if I’m a citizen of Heaven, that’s where my sights should be set. I have to not just read the above scripture and agree with it. I actually have to do it. If I truly want the Lord of Lords to be my provider, I’m to “seek the kingdom of God above all else”.  Only then will He give me everything I need. 

Need. That’s an interesting word. Sometimes we find ourselves saying something like “I need a new car.” Sometimes we actually do need one. Sometimes we just WANT a new car because our neighbor got one. Total difference. God wants us to be mindful of His kingdom and concerned about the situations He places us in. If we do that, all of our true needs will be met. I didn’t say all of our wants. He knows our true needs. He knows how He created us to be in communication with Him and community with others. This brings the fulfillment of the peace we’re really seeking. 

So, let’s try removing His crown of royalty from our heads. He took a crown of thorns for us. He deserves the Royal Crown. Our attention should be focused on Him first. He’s worthy of that. We can’t do anything apart from Him anyway. I like how Peter answered Him once during His earthly ministry. Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.” (‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭68-69‬ NLT) Since we’re all seeking for something, take Peter’s words to heart. Where else or to whom more qualified could you run in your search?

 

Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.

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