Temporal vs. Eternal Living

Until today, I did not fully grasp the significance of temporal verses eternal living. After listening to one of my favorite pastors, Dr. Charles Stanley, on the topic "Living for the Eternal Life, I fully realized how nothing we focus our energy on is eternal, except our relationship with God. Matthew 6:20-21 says, 20 "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Conceptually and experientially, I knew this to be true. I even understood how this works. I have had several reminders during the course of my journey to get this one right. However, I obviously still need reminders from time to time. By striping everything away I want to hold on too, He is the only thing I can rely on. My career, relationships, resources, will ultimately all turn to dust and ashes one day. This goes for everyone. On one hand, this is a very sad thought. We invest so much of our time and energy trying to make these things prosper. This is a good thing, as long as it is for the right reason, to honor God. In many cases, we find ourselves doing it to feel better about ourselves and to live a "happier life". It is sometimes so difficult to comprehend how our own desires are insignificant compared to God's desire to provide us an eternal life both here and in heaven. Maybe we believe we can take ownership for all the good things that happen to us because of the investments we make. Or, we can feel responsible for another person's happiness. Once we do take ownership of our life, pride takes over. And, Pride = Ego = Edge God Out. I truly believe God uses these temporal activities to mature us and condition us to see His eternal perspective. It is sometimes very difficult to have this type of perspective when you are concentrated on making these temporal things go well according to your own personal desires.

So, how do you have an eternal life here on earth? I thought you can only have a life of eternity in heaven. Well, I believe your eternal life starts right here and right now. The following is one of my favorite verses in the bible. Psalms 90:12 says,

"So teach us to number our days, That we may present to You a heart of wisdom."

Powerful Stuff! I believe God is telling us eternal life starts now, during this trial period. If you want to win the big race, you have to run in practice just like you would during the big meet. Are you practicing in order to win the big race?