The Elf Is Watching…

By Gina Stinson

Every year about this time a small little stuffed creature arrives at our home—Elf. Elf is a friendly little guy who is responsible for reporting back to Santa about the behavior of my kids. He’s Santa’s helper.

It’s convenient. Elf shows up and my parental instructions are more readily obeyed and my kids actually move more quickly and with a little more excitement when routine chores are accomplished. It’s hilarious. I giggle to myself as I watch.

Eagerness to please, quick response times, and such remarkable devotion to a stuffed animal that only comes around three months of the year is cute…and understandable for little children. Adults would be ridiculous to act that way. But in a world where materialism, money, and employment are valued above character, morals, and values, we might need to take a second look into the Elf’s mirror. Who are we trying to please?

God’s Word is full of scriptures to help us keep our priorities in line. Seeking God’s kingdom first ensures that the important things in life are added to us—things like love, joy, and peace. When you really get down to it, it’s the things that are most important in life that God promises us.

So, then, how can I become more diligent about being radically obedient, eager to please, quicker in my response time and more excited about the things of God? By remembering Who He is and what He’s done for me. God redeemed my life, poured Himself into me, gave His only Son, and takes care of my daily needs. He’s real. He’s watching. And His list of priorities are created to make my life richer and more rewarding. What more do I need to get motivated?

PRAYER: Father, thank You for seeing all and knowing all. Thank You for the way You so abundantly look after my needs. Help me to obey quickly, motivated by Your love and wisdom. Impress upon me the value of prioritizing according to what’s really important and WHO is worth following.

“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you,” Matthew 6:33 KJV.

Gina Stinson resides in Sulphur Springs, Texas with her family. As a minister’s wife, homeschooling mom of two and publicist assistant, she juggles her time and talents in hopes of honoring and pleasing Jesus Christ. You can learn more about Gina and her juggling at http://journalinggina.blogspot.com