How do we find the eternal value of things in life and make them our focus?

Let's reflect on these questions: Do you know what an eternal perspective is? What are things that you find most valuable in your life? How closely do you hold your materials & possessions? Do you feel that what you value lines up with what Jesus valued?

I'm going to provide you with several verses as resources that you can use in your own prayer time and meditate on in your heart.

There are three parts:
1. UNDERSTANDING what an eternal perspective is
2. What are the BENEFITS of having an eternal perspective
3. How to DEVELOP an eternal perspective

Definition of perspective: point of view, a way of thinking about a matter.

Message:
UNDERSTANDING what an eternal perspective is: Having an eternal perspective means evaluating the beliefs, events, and decisions of life from Gods point of view. It is using Gods values as the measuring stick with which we evaluate our lives. It is also recognizing that everything done in the present has an eternal consequence, and should be evaluated in that light. Jesus taught that our perspective in life, the way we view the world, affects every detail of our lives. We will either choose to have a strong positive impact on the way we live or a negative one. So let's break the two views down:
1) worldly view- Our perspective is influenced by the negative values of this world, our measurement of what is true will be based on the world's values rather than Gods. When we value the things of this world we desire what the world has to offer instead of wanting the things of God. This makes us feel connected to the world. By spending all or most of your efforts and time to find significance through acquiring wealth, possessions, titles, status, or being influential in a prideful way does not fulfill you. All of these things or desires will fade. Putting your values in those things with this perspective will only lead you to a dead end.
2) eternal view- Our perspective enables us to live in Gods light rather than what we perceive to be true through our limited knowledge as humans. Living according to Gods wisdom will appear to be foolishness to the world but is based on the true measure of reality: Gods eternal truth. It is easy to believe the wisdom of men and pursue values with our own interests and comfort as the goal. However, what satisfies and gratifies us now is not necessarily in our best interest in light of eternity. God says that we do not belong to this world that we are only temporary residents and our true home is in heaven. God also reminds us in his word to hold things, possessions and materials "loosely" and hold people "tightly". When you take on a eternal perspective you direct your focus to find significance through a personal relationship with Jesus. In doing so you begin to see the long-term value in serving and advancing Gods kingdom.

The second point is- What are the BENEFITS of having an eternal perspective:
Benefit #1- Our heavenly treasure cannot be stolen or destroyed. It is secure. As we invest our lives in the things of God, we lay up treasure for eternity.

Benefit #2- We can live without anxiety. With an eternal perspective we have the RIGHT to live free from worry for several reasons- because God values us, takes care of us, and let's us know we are set apart from the pressures of this world.

Benefit #3- We are able to endure trials and difficulties joyfully. We have an advantage as Christians- a connection to the vine during any circumstance. Gods word says we cannot escape pain but when things happen in life we can have an attitude of joy and expectancy knowing God will be there.
(These three benefits are among so many others but really stand out.)

The last point is- How do we DEVELOP an eternal perspective: No one is born with an eternal perspective instead we are born with a worldly one. There are five important ways:
1) Choose to study and meditate on Gods values. Instead of copying the lifestyles of other people (unbelievers or Christians) let God transform and renew your mind through his word. You cannot know Gods values or perspective apart from the word of God. The Bible provides so much of what we need to know about who God is. In today's generation we have an advantage with technology to hear and see the gospel in so many forms.
2) Choose daily to make sure your values and decisions line up with the word of God. Use Gods values as the measuring stick with which we evaluate our lives. It will help keep you on track.
3) Choose to seek Gods kingdom first and lay up eternal treasures. Ask yourself what are you living for today? How will you decide to use your time? Will it be based on the "things above" or the "things of this earth?"
4) Choose to walk by faith not by sight. Its real easy to "trust the Lord" when everything in your life is going right, when your circumstances are comfortable, or even when you can see what God is doing in your life. But God desires us to walk by faith not by sight, learn to trust him even when we cannot understand what he is doing.
5) Choose to follow the example of mature believers. The difference between this point and the first one is that point #1 God wants us to be transformed by his word not just by mimicking other people and this last point here says that Fellowship with godly people protects us. I encourage all of us to really understand the value of having a mentor, and surround yourself with godly women who can uplift you, who can pour into your life.

When we let go of the earthly materials and possessions and allow God to show us what things are important to Him he redirects us and gives us a new perspective. When we take on God's perspective we see what he values from an eternal view instead of a worldly view. God created us so we could enjoy our lives but when they become more important than the things God values that's a good clue that we need to reevaluate our lives. I encourage you to ask God what areas in your life you can improve to be able to have more of an eternal perspective.

*Remember we're all a work in progress!

Created about 1 year ago