God wants us to turn loose from the things of this world and stop depending on them. He wants us to center our attention on the world to come. This means that we “hang loose” as far as this world is concerned, and start living for the eternal values of the next world.

Abraham, a wealthy man, could have lived in an expensive house in any location he chose. But he was first of all God’s servant, a pilgrim and a stranger—which meant living in tents. Lot chose to abandon the pilgrim life and move into the evil city of Sodom. Which of these two men had true security? It would appear that Lot was safer in the city than Abraham was in his tents on the plain. But Lot became a prisoner of war—and Abraham had to rescue him.

Instead of heeding God’s warning, Lot went back into the city. When God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, Lot lost everything. Lot survived, but he trusted in the things of this world instead of trusting the Word of God.

Like Abraham, we should be wise pilgrims following God’s beckoning voice.

Verse for today: “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20, NIV).

Further reading: Colossians 3:1-4; 1 Corinthians 15:42-58; Isaiah 26:7-9.

Action assignment: Too often we are possessed by our possessions. Today give something that you consider precious to someone else. Do not buy a gift, but give what means something to you. Let this be an expression of your desire to share and to test your ability to be less attached to things.

Warren W. Wiersbe
www.backtothebible.in