More Than the Next Good Thing

My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Colossians 2:2–3 NIV

Imagine finishing something you've worked hard on. You're pleased with the result. You step back, admire what you've accomplished, and enjoy that wonderful feeling of satisfaction. But before long, you're thinking about the next project, the next experience, or something else you'd like to accomplish. There's nothing wrong with any of that. The enjoyment is real, but somehow it never quite settles that deeper desire for something more. Could it be that some of the richest things life has to offer aren't found in what we accomplish or acquire, but in something we've scarcely begun to appreciate?

Paul, one of Jesus' early followers, understood how easily people could overlook what matters most. Writing to believers in a city called Colossae, he wanted them to discover something remarkable. He spoke of “the full riches of complete understanding” and then revealed where those riches could be found. Not in greater accomplishments, possessions, or recognition, but in Christ, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:2–3, NIV). Paul wasn't talking about collecting more information about Jesus. He was opening their eyes to the riches of knowing Him personally.

There's a beautiful picture of this kind of richness in a song written by David, an ancient king of Israel. While in the wilderness, he wrote, “I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you” (Psalm 63:1, NIV). Yet listen to what he says a little later. “Because your love is better than life” (Psalm 63:3, NIV). David wasn't longing for someone he'd never known. He had already experienced God's love, and that made him want more. The satisfaction of accomplishing something worthwhile eventually fades, even when the accomplishment remains. But David had discovered a love whose richness didn't fade with the passing moment. The very love that satisfies our deepest longing can also awaken an even greater desire to know Him.

David goes on to say, “I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods” (Psalm 63:5, NIV). A friendship deepens when we make the call, give our time, and sometimes set aside what is convenient. We can genuinely love God and be grateful for the ways He helps us, yet rarely give that relationship the time and attention that help it grow. What richness could we be missing when we turn to Him only when something goes wrong?

Perhaps someone you care for will come to mind today. You could make that call, not because you need anything, but simply because you value the relationship. When two men asked Jesus where He was staying, He replied, “Come ... and you will see” (John 1:39, NIV). They spent that day with Him. They had come wanting to know more about Jesus, but stayed to know Him. And as our friendship with Him grows, what more might we discover about the life God gives us?

Prayer

Father, I enjoy so many good things You give me, yet sometimes overlook the joy of knowing You better. Help me treasure time with You, not just when I need something, but because I want You. Amen.