Luke 12:32–34

Here, Jesus clearly tells His people not to store up earthly treasures, but instead to give and care for the poor. Rather than saving treasures on earth, we are called to store up treasures in heaven. Where our heart is may not always be visible to us, but God sees it clearly.

It is amazing that I read Book of Daniel chapter 5 before reading this passage. In that chapter, King Belshazzar is warned by the writing on the wall. As I read, I felt that what displeased God most about this king was his lack of humility. He held a feast for the wealthy, displaying his riches and drinking from gold goblets. Verses 22–25 show clearly that he praised silver, gold, and other material things—things that are worthless in God’s sight—more than he honored God.

There are many areas in my life that I need to place on the altar and surrender to God. He is speaking to me. Even this morning, in two different ways, He revealed the same message.

God loves me, and I need to surrender.

 Luke 12:22–31

When I read this passage, I feel a deep sadness at how far we seem to have drifted from God’s original design. God created us and knows our needs, and He is willing to provide. What He asks of us is love, trust, and obedience.

We spend much of our lives working, often feeling unable to rest or retire when we hope to. At times, it can feel overwhelming—the responsibilities, financial pressures, and ongoing obligations. We work hard to afford things like a home or a car, yet there are always additional costs and systems to navigate. It can sometimes feel like a cycle that’s hard to step out of.

In the midst of all this, it’s easy to feel weighed down or even trapped by the demands of everyday life. There are also larger forces in the world—brokenness, distraction, and struggles—that can pull us away from what truly matters.

Yet, Jesus continues to call us back to Him. He invites us to seek Him first, to live with love, trust, and obedience, and to care for others. He calls us to share His word and to support one another in times of need.

I long for freedom from the pressures and distractions of this life. I’m reminded that this freedom begins with letting go of self-centered ways—of worldly priorities, attitudes, and desires—and turning toward God.

Only God can truly help me.

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.”

 Luke 12:13–21

It’s good to save for the future, but when that becomes our mindset, it can lead us in the wrong direction.

In this parable, we see that the rich man’s heart was in his possessions. Jesus warns him—and through that, warns us—to be careful. Anything that becomes an idol between us and God can hinder our walk with Him.

Hebrews 12 says:
“…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles…”

So we need to be careful to keep our eyes on Him.

 Luke 11:42–54

Jesus came to this world and died so that whoever believes in Him can have eternal life.
He showed us how to love,
how to forgive,
how to encourage others,
how to support others.

He showed us how to be humble,
to have a heart to serve others,
not to show how important we are or how perfect we are.

We are nothing without Him.

His message is very simple, but it is hard—unless we surrender our will to Him.
With Him, nothing is impossible.

Here in these few scripture verses, God shows us that He does not approve of those who want to appear superior and perfect.
They only bring burdens to others—burdens that no one can carry.

When I look at what is happening around me, I see a lot of imperfection.
People are fighting for power—in families, in relationships, in places where they have the authority to rule over others—and it all brings more imperfection.

One thing remains until Jesus comes again:
His Word, His promises, and the Holy Spirit.

This hymn comes to my mind:

One thing have I desired of the Lord,
that will I seek after,
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life.

 Luke 11:37–41

As I was reading this, many things came to my mind.

The Pharisees, who wanted to obey every rule, were watching how Jesus did not wash Himself before meals. This was considered wrong according to the law. Yes, the Pharisees were obeying every rule, but they could not recognize the Messiah.

This is a good lesson for us who are saved by the mercies of God. We try our best to show that we are doing everything right. Our families are all doing the right thing. We may even speak about how we serve God and how our families serve God. But when someone comes into our midst who does not meet our Christian standard, we look down on them. We may not say anything, but our actions show it.

Many times, my family has shown me that I do this too. So I want to turn away from outward appearances and instead check my heart and my inner attitudes.

As this hymn says:
Search me, O God, and know my heart today
Try me, O Saviour, know my thoughts, I pray