THEN WHAT?
A businessman vacationing in Mexico observed a fisherman bringing in his catch for the day. As the fisherman walked past him, the businessman said, “Looks like a good catch.”
“Yes. I’m heading home.”
“It’s still early. If you worked more hours, you could make more money.”
“Then what would I do?” the fisherman asked.
“You could buy another boat and make even more money,” the businessman replied.
“And then what?
“Then you could buy more boats and become wealthy.”
“Then what? “
“Then you could sell your business, and retire.”
“Then what?”
“Then you could go home early and relax.”
“Well, that’s what I’m doing now,” the fisherman replied.
Makes us pause and go “Hmmm,” doesn’t it? Ever feel like you’re racing through life, trying to conquer one more challenge? Perhaps we should ask ourselves, “Then what?”
Jesus taught us to enjoy each moment and live one day at a time. “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes” (Matthew 6:34, MSG). A powerful truth.
God created us with unique dreams, goals, and ambitions—and we should pursue them. But sometimes our ambitions can swallow our priorities. As we chase our dreams, it’s possible to sacrifice true wealth: family, faith and friends.
How do we know when our desire to succeed is of God or from self? Obviously, we need to seek him. If we find we’re striving in the flesh, comparing ourselves to others, or continually wanting more and more in our pursuit for success, it’s an indicator that it’s not from God. Because success isn’t a place where you arrive, it’s a state of mind.
In Philippians 4:11 Paul wrote, “I have learned how to be content with whatever I have ” (NLT). Wherever you are in life—on a fishing boat or a yacht—be content with life’s simple pleasures. Focus on your blessings rather than your struggles.
Take time each day to hug the ones you love. You never know when it might be the last time. Hang out with friends. Sit in quietness and peace in God’s presence. Do something that makes you smile. Watch or read something that makes you laugh. You’ll love life a whole lot more.
Principle: Be content, whatever your circumstances.
Ponder:
Under what circumstances do you find yourself struggling with contentment?
How does God bring you back to your true priorities in life?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Philippians 4:10-13.
Heavenly Father, thank you for creating me with dreams and ambitions. As I pursue my dreams, help me stay focused on my priorities.