If things were different in your life, what would you do?

We often think about what we could do if we were millionaires? What would we do if we found our self in extreme poverty? In either situation, what would we do? The fact is, we are who we are and happiness is not about being wealthy. Happiness comes from being who you are, being content with yourself and treating your friends and neighbors the same way you would like to be treated.

Notice the beginning of this article starts with the word if. The word if can be a stumbling block in our life or it can lead to a full and healthy lifestyle. If we want things different in our life, it's important that we think about the options we have and the consequences of our successes or failures. If we are successful in our endeavors, will it be helpful or will it be harmful. If our success harms someone, it is not success but an absolute failure. If some of our failures brings us closer to our family and friends, some failures can lead to more happiness and success.

Here is an example of success and failure. I read an article a few years ago about a minister visiting one of his church members that had quit coming to church on a regular basis. He was a good moral man, honest in his dealings and had become very successful in his business. His pastor visited him at his home late one evening and ask why was he not attending church as faithful as he once did, wondering if someone had offended him or if he had some sort of problem. If so, the church would surely be ready to help. The gentleman answered, “If only I had time. You see my business has grown and I've opened up several new stores and I just don't have time to do everything that needs to be done.” The good pastor was sympathetic but said as he was getting ready to leave, “I would like to have prayer with you before I go.” As he began to pray he said, “Lord we love this brother but would you please let some of his stores burn down so he will have more time for you?” The man immediately interrupted his pastor and said, “Hold on just a minute. I'll be there.” At that point, he realized his pastor was acting in his best interest by showing him that the materialistic things of this world are no comparison to the joy of serving God.
This little two letter word “if” is found in the scripture 1420 times. Sometimes for good, sometimes for bad, sometimes for temptation, sometimes as a statement. KJV Romans Chapter 10 verse 9 and 10 states, That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Nothing in this world is worth losing your soul, so please take the time that it takes to be a friend to your neighbors and show your love to your family, cherishing the time that God has given us here on this earth. Please go to the Church of your choice Sunday.