"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
Wilbur Rees, born in 1917, wrote a thought-provoking poem entitled, Three Dollars Worth of God, describing how many view God.
I would like to buy $3 worth of God, please.
Not enough to explode my soul or disturb my sleep,
but just enough to equal a cup of warm milk
or a snooze in the sunshine.
I don’t want enough of God to make me love a black man
or pick beets with a migrant.
I want ecstasy, not transformation.
I want warmth of the womb, not a new birth.
I want a pound of the Eternal in a paper sack.
I would like to buy $3 worth of God, please. –Wilbur Rees
God believes we are priceless.
Our society declares money provides self-esteem and happiness, and God can fit into their lifestyle as needed. Sort of like a need-to-know basis when in a crisis or wanting security for eternal life. Rees' limited perspective of the limitless love of God is a tragedy.
God says He wants to give us hope and a future far surpassing $3. What is money compared to hope? Hope is there when a job is lost, a marriage breaks down, a friend betrays, bankruptcy threatens, or a child is lost.
I am living proof. God was my hope and future when my world spiraled out of my control.
God will enrich your journey beyond a dollar value.
Almighty God, forgive us for limiting our love and service to You. Thank You for Your unfailing love and dedication. Help us to realize our true significance and eternal riches because of You. Thank You for Your promises and help as we walk beside You in the way we should go. Amen.
Take Action
Are you willing to ask for more than $3 worth of God? What are the things that hold you back from a life of victory? As you step forward in faith, memorize the verse above for encouragement. God believes in you: remember, you are priceless in His eyes!