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At the funeral of a famous personality, his status and wealth were clearly represented in many ways—in the lavish flower arrangements on stands and draped over the expensive casket, the number and prominence of the guests in attendance, and finally, the massive stone already placed at the gravesite. As he was being lowered into the grave, someone whispered the question that was on many people’s minds: “How much did he leave behind?” Someone nearby gave the correct answer: “He left everything!”

It’s true—you cannot take it with you

Billy Graham once said in a sermon, “I’ve never seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul.” The fact is, everyone—rich or poor—will eventually die, and none of their earthly possessions will go with them. The only thing that truly matters, and will last, is what was done in obedience to God’s calling—the assignment (ministry) for which each person was created.

The Bible says we will all stand before God and give an account for how we lived our life on earth:

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.” (2 Cor. 5:10 ESV)

While You’re Still Alive

“I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” (2 Tim 4:1-5)

Therefore

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” (2 Tim 2:15)

“But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children's children,” (Psalm 103:17)

“The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!” (Prov. 20:7)

“And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (Luke 12:15 ESV)

We had accumulated so much stuff!

Susan and I have moved several times over the past fifty-plus years. The first two moves were into larger homes to accommodate our growing family. But as our children grew up and moved away, we found ourselves needing to downsize into smaller spaces.

What has amazed us most is the sheer amount of possessions we’ve managed to accumulate over the years. Our garage and storage sheds became full. Going through it all has been a chore—deciding what to keep and what to toss. A big part of the challenge is that so many of our things are tied to memories, and letting them go can feel like giving away a part of our past. It’s an emotional process.

However, looking at this with common sense—and having dealt with the estates of our own parents—we realize that if we don’t take care of our stuff now, our kids will have to later. So, we’re doing our best to view our possessions through a practical lens and address them accordingly.

Our conclusion

It’s okay to have possessions—but don’t let them have you. In other words, priorities must be in the right order. God must come first in your life. Look to Him alone as your provider, and when you put Him first, He will supply all that you need—including your possessions. (See Matthew 6:33)

Don’t put your hope in the uncertainty of riches

“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.” (1 Tim. 6:17-19 ESV)

Treasures in heaven

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt. 6:19-21 ESV)

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” (Matt. 16:26 ESV)

Therefore

“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.” (Prov. 3:9-10 ESV)

“Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, ‘The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.’ We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.” (1 Cor. 10:6–11 ESV)

Warnings

This passage reminds us that the events recorded in Scripture were written for our benefit—so that we would not follow the same destructive patterns of desiring evil, falling into idolatry, engaging in sexual immorality, testing the Lord, or giving in to ungratefulness. These real-life examples from the past serve as serious warnings for us today.

No Longer Taught

There was a time when Bible stories were a foundational part of children’s education. They helped shape a moral framework by clearly distinguishing right from wrong. Sadly, in many public schools today, these stories are no longer taught. As a result, many children grow up without a clear moral compass—and situational ethics have taken their place.

For Training in Righteousness

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” (2 Tim. 3:16–17 ESV)

For Wisdom for the Future

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” (Prov. 19:20 ESV)

Therefore

Take God’s Word seriously. Let the examples of the past instruct and guide you. Build your life—and help others build theirs—on the solid foundation of Scripture. Read it, live it, and pass it on. The lessons it contains will equip you with wisdom, righteousness, and the strength to walk in God's will.

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” (James 1:22)

“And to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,” (Eph. 4:23)

Things go wrong sometimes

Recently, on a flight home from a conference I had attended on the opposite side of the country, I faced a very tight connection between flights. Normally, this wouldn’t have been a big deal—but my first flight was delayed by a few minutes, and by the time we landed, my next flight was already boarding.

To make matters worse

I was seated near the back of the plane, so it took extra time to deplane. I had to run to make my connecting flight, which was at a gate halfway across the airport and required a short shuttle ride—usually just a minute or so. But as soon as I boarded, the shuttle broke down. Now I was delayed beyond hope. I missed my connecting flight!

On top of that

In the confusion of everything (thank you, dyslexia), I took a wrong turn and ended up being redirected back through airport security. Even though I had already cleared security prior to my earlier flight with no issues, this time I was flagged for additional screening. They opened everything I had, thoroughly inspected my belongings, and I was both x-rayed and patted down.

I still had to find a new flight home

It was the middle of a long travel day, I was exhausted, and all I wanted was to be home. I found myself growing grumpy and slipping into a negative attitude.

But in that moment

I remembered something important that I had once heard: “Our disappointments are sometimes God’s appointments.” I had recently read about someone who missed an important flight because of a tire blowout and was devastated—until they discovered the flight they missed was one that tragically hit a Twin Tower on September 11.

Perhaps there was a bigger reason I missed my flight connection?

I may never know the reason, sometimes negative things just happen (see John 16:33). But I thought of a comforting promise: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Rom 8:28 NLT)

Joseph’s 13-year journey

The life of Joseph is great example of a brighter end following a dark journey (see Genesis 37–50). From being sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, and thrown into prison, to eventually becoming second-in-command to Pharaoh—God used every step to get him where he needed to be in order to accomplish God’s greater purpose.

Delays, detours, and disruptions can easily steal our peace

If we let them. But Scripture reminds us:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:6–7 NASB)

Therefore

“Through Him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge His name.” (Heb. 13:15)

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thess. 5:16–18 ESV)

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Cor. 15:58 NIV)

Examples of Courage

The dictionary defines courage as firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty. Words like mettle, spirit, resolution, and tenacity reflect the mental and moral strength to resist opposition, danger, or hardship.

The Bible gives us many powerful examples of courage:

• The Hebrew children refused to bow down to an idol, even when it meant being thrown into a blazing furnace (Daniel 3:1–30).

• Young David, with only a slingshot and five stones, bravely faced the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:1–58).

• Queen Esther risked her life by approaching the king to intercede for her people (Book of Esther).

Each of them faced danger with boldness, trusting that God was with them.

Be Strong and Courageous in the Face of Adversity, Knowing God Goes with You

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deut. 31:6–8 NIV)

A Command to Be Courageous

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Josh. 1:9 ESV)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” (Eph. 6:10)

Therefore

Take heart! Let courage rise in your spirit as you stand firm in faith. Face today’s challenges knowing that God is with you, empowering you with His strength, love, and peace. Step forward boldly—your labor in the Lord is never in vain.

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Tim. 1:7 ESV)

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 3:13–14 NIV)

Singleness of Purpose

Someone once said, “The way to kill a man’s vision is to give him two visions.” How true that is! The key to success is to have a clear, singular focus—and to stay committed to what God created you to do. The apostle Paul said, “This one thing I do.” He knew his mission: to press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God had called him heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Like Paul, we are called to focus fully on God's purpose for our lives. When we put God first in everything, everything else will fall into place.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matt. 6:33 ESV)

God Appointed You to Bear Fruit

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
(John 15:16 NIV)

God Will Make It Happen

“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” (1 Thess. 5:24 NIV)

Therefore

Stay focused on the one thing God has called you to do. Let go of distractions, trust His guidance, and press on with purpose. He is faithful, and He will bring it to pass.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Rom. 8:28 NIV)

“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit.” (Rom. 8:5 NLT)

What are you thinking about?

Someone once said, “You aren’t what you think you are, but what you think, you are.” In other words, if your mind is focused on sinful things, you are living according to the flesh and not pleasing to God. On the other hand, if your thoughts are directed by the Holy Spirit and centered on spiritual things, you are living in a way that pleases the Spirit.

Control your thoughts

It’s important to understand that you have control over what you choose to think about. Thoughts are like birds—they may fly over your head, but you don’t have to let them build a nest in your hair. When a negative or sinful thought enters your mind, recognize it for what it is, and bring it under control.

Also remember

Your thought life is shaped by what you feed your mind. If you constantly listen to music with sinful messages or fill your mind with R-rated movies and worldly entertainment, your thoughts will reflect that content. But if you listen to worship music and fill your heart and mind with God’s Word through reading and studying the Bible, you will develop a spiritual mindset that honors God.

Take Every Thought Captive to Obey Christ

“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.” (2 Cor. 10:3-6 ESV)

Renew Your Mind

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Rom. 12:2 ESV)

Therefore

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
(Phil. 4:8 ESV)

“We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin.” (Rom. 6:6 NLT)

1960’s comedian, Flip Wilson, became famous for his punchline, “The devil made me do it.” It always brought regales of laughter when he said it. But the truth, based on God’s Word, is that the devil doesn’t have any power to make you do anything; he can only lie to you, deceive you, tempt you, threaten you, scare you, and lead you to do things. But what you do is entirely your own choice.

We are free from the power of sin

“For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin.” (Rom. 6:7 NLT)

 Consider yourself dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus

“When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 6:10-11 NLT)

Control yourself and live under the freedom of God’s grace

“Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace.” (Rom. 6:12-14 NLT)

You are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God

“When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right. And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom. 6:20-23 NLT)

Therefore

“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36 NKJV)

“See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Col. 2:8 ESV) 

The above passage warns us to watch out for several things that could trap you:

• Philosophy: Philosophy has to do with matters concerning existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. A personal philosophy is summed up by one's ethical beliefs and/or goals in life for achieving success, love and happiness. There are many definitions for this, but it all boils down to whether your personal philosophy of life comes from a worldly point of view or comes from the Word of God. 

“Yet among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away. But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory.” (1 Cor. 2:6-7 ESV)

• Empty deceit: Deceit is defined as anything to do with  deception, duplicity, double-dealing, fraud, cheating, trickery, fake, lying, pretense, treachery, crookedness, or scheming. The opposite of deceit is truth. “The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others.” (Psalms 15:2-3 NIV) 

• According to Human tradition: “Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.” (2 Thess. 3:6 ESV)

• Elementary spirits of the world: “Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules: “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!”? These rules, which have to do with things that are all destined to perish with use, are based on merely human commands and teachings.” (Col. 2:20-22 NIV)

• And not according to Christ: “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” (Col. 2:9-10 NIV)

Therefore

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (1 Cor. 16:13 ESV)

“Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Pet. 1:13 ESV)

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7 ESV)