"But easy street is a dead-end street. Those who live there make their bellies their gods; belches are their praise; all they can think of is their appetites" (Philippians 3:19 MSG). 

I used to think that I wanted to live on "easy street." You know, where you could have anything you want, anytime you want it. As I've gotten older and hopefully a little wiser, I've notice that a lot of people who seem to have it all, really don't. Many of them pay a big price for their riches, fame, and beauty. And obviously, I'm not willing to make the kind of sacrifices it would take to achieve those things.

Dead-end street. In fact, I've discovered that there is much more to life than focusing on myself. Talk about a "dead-end street"! What if I could attain all the riches or fame this world has to offer? What if I could have a drastic makeover and become "the most beautiful woman in the world"? Would any of those things last for eternity? Could I keep that kind of beauty forever as my body continues to age? And would I take the riches and fame with me when I die?

Priorities. What do I need to focus on in my life? If I knew I had only a short time to live, what would be my priorities then? I know these are deep thoughts that no one really wants to consider. But sometimes, it's just good to have a reality check, so we can get our heads out of the clouds and focus on the right things.

Anyway, I've decided not to even dream about "easy street" anymore, because the important things in life are not all about me. Are they?

Focus. "But there’s far more to life for us. We’re citizens of high heaven! We’re waiting the arrival of the Savior, the Master, Jesus Christ, who will transform our earthy bodies into glorious bodies like his own. He’ll make us beautiful and whole with the same powerful skill by which he is putting everything as it should be, under and around him" (Philippians 3:20-21 MSG).

What are your priorities in life? How have your priorities changed over the years?

Photo/TaraRoss