They were just rocks - and not even pretty rocks. They were in plastic cups all over his room. One day while cleaning, I threw them away. (In my defense, I had told him a million times to find a place for them that was NOT in the middle of the floor). My little son was devastated! “Mom, that was hundreds of dollars worth of rocks!” he accused. My reaction inside was, “Right! They were worth nothing.” But I was wrong. They were precious to him. He had found them during adventures that only little boys can understand, and I had dismissed them.

So many times I am dismissive, critical, or disdainful of the people around me! In my self righteousness, I forget that they are His treasures. He placed enough value on their eternity to give His son’s life for them, so who am I to deem their lives worth less than my own? Jesus’ command was actually quite the opposite, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27)

Unfortunately, I’m not able to do that on my own. Fortunately, He is able and willing to give me that love. This week, don’t dismiss God’s treasures around you. Ask Him for the ability to love them as He loves you.

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God for growth in your character and personal discipline, and for physical health and strength. Ask for Him to empower you for spiritual warfare against the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil. Ask for help regarding your activities of the day and other concerns you have. Intercede for the poor and hungry, the oppressed and persecuted, and those in control of world resources. Offer prayers for peace among the nations and current events and concerns.