by Rhonda Jones

It’s really easy in this overtly selfish culture to begin desiring the things we see around us…we’re exploited daily with advertising for new cars, financing for a bigger home and promises that all of those ‘things’ will make us happy. But the truth is things don’t make us happy. In fact, we can wind up further in debt and less satisfied than ever before. So, what’s the solution?

This week Pastor Ron will speak to us from James 4. His message is entitled, “Be a Stand-out person (because of who you follow).” So, here’s a question that we as Christ- followers need to ask ourselves: Do people know I’m a believer of Jesus by the way I live my life? A life that’s lived with intentional devotion to Him will shine brightly in a dark and hopeless world. So how can we be that light for Jesus?

James states that when we pray, we tend to pray with selfish motives and not pray for what God wants in our lives. I know I’ve been there personally. In fact, I’m going through that right now, trying to visualize where I’ll end up when I retire (which is coming too quickly). My mind seems to flit and flutter with thoughts of a lovely home near the water or in a forested area with room for a spacious garden. My imagination runs wild as I scan the homes for sale in outlying, uncrowded areas away from the hustle and bustle of city life. And then, after I’ve hoped and dreamt of what I could want for myself, God’s Spirit tugs at my heart reminding me that He would like to be involved with the decisions for my future. With a humbled heart before God I am able to ask, “What do You want for me, Jesus?” Then and only then is my heart at peace and I can rest in His satisfying presence.

I’m sure I’ve only touched on one aspect of Pastor Ron’s message this week. So join me this Sunday at 10:30 am – be sure to have your notepad and pencil in hand – you’ll want to write down all the points for living an outstanding life and keep them tucked away in your heart as a guide for living an intentional, Stand-out life!

See you Sunday for online worship on Facebook Live, YouTube Live, www.wacathedral.org, or WaCathedral App.