James 1:11 (NLT)

“The hot sun rises and the grass withers; the little flower droops and falls, and its beauty fades away. In the same way, the rich will fade away with all of their achievements.”

This devotion is going to be a little different—I want to get more personal.

Let me ask you: What are you doing with your life? Are you chasing reputation, achievements, and making your name known—or are you making God’s name known? (John 3:30). I’ll be honest, I wrestle with this. Too often I focus on myself—what I can do or achieve—without acknowledging God and His will (Proverbs 16:9).

But James reminds us: “The rich will fade away with all their achievements.” At the end of the day, none of our possessions or accomplishments will go with us when we die (Ecclesiastes 5:15; 1 Timothy 6:7). That reality humbles me, and I have to remind myself daily not to build my life on fading things (Matthew 6:19–20).

The good news? There are eternal treasures we can store up in heaven:

• Souls—sharing the gospel so others may believe and join us in eternity (Matthew 28:19–20; Daniel 12:3).

• How we forgive and treat others—Scripture shows this will shape our true wealth in heaven (Ephesians 4:32; Matthew 6:14–15).

Application: In everything, let your goal be to make Him known (Colossians 3:17). It’s okay to have success, but do people know your name more than the name of Jesus? (Philippians 2:9–11). Point others to Him. Win souls, forgive freely, and live to glorify Christ (1 Corinthians 10:31).

 

Prayer:

I love You, God, and I praise You. I boldly come before Your throne and ask You to lead me into a life that brings You glory. I don’t want any of the glory for myself, Lord—only for You. Help me in everything I do, and in the mighty name of Jesus I pray, amen.