What is Next
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Date: December 13, 2024
Scripture: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
Devotional Thought
Life is indeed a journey filled with accomplishments and milestones. We graduate from school, find jobs, build careers, establish families, and pursue financial security. Each milestone brings a sense of fulfillment, yet it also opens the door to the next question: “What’s next?” The pursuit of the next thing becomes an endless loop, often leaving little room to reflect on God’s ultimate purpose for our lives. If we are not careful, we may find ourselves consumed by earthly achievements and lose sight of our eternal destination.
The story of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 is a sobering reminder of the dangers of focusing solely on temporal accomplishments. The man had a bountiful harvest and thought to himself, “I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain.” Yet, God called him a fool because he failed to store up treasures in heaven.
Our goals in life—education, family, financial freedom—are not inherently wrong. They are blessings and responsibilities entrusted to us by God. However, they must not overshadow the greater call to seek His kingdom and prioritize our relationship with Him. Heaven should remain our ultimate focus, shaping the way we approach every “what next” in our lives.
Practical Reflection
Evaluate Priorities: Reflect on the current pursuits in your life. Are they aligned with God’s purpose for you? Are you making time to seek His kingdom and righteousness?
Set Eternal Goals: Alongside your earthly goals, set spiritual goals. This could be deepening your prayer life, sharing the gospel with others, or growing in your understanding of God’s Word.
Stay Grateful: Celebrate accomplishments but stay mindful of the One who enables you to achieve them. Let gratitude keep your heart centred on God.
Engage in Service: Use your milestones as opportunities to serve others. A good job or financial stability can be a platform to support the needy and advance God’s kingdom.
Closing Thoughts
The loop of “what is next” is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be aimless. By anchoring your life in God’s plan and focusing on eternal rewards, you can navigate this journey with purpose and peace. Let each “what is next” draw you closer to God, not farther from Him. Remember, the ultimate “what next” for every believer is an eternity in the presence of our Savior.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the milestones You’ve helped me achieve. Help me not to lose focus on Your plans and purposes for my life. Teach me to seek Your kingdom first and to prioritize what truly matters. Let every accomplishment draw me closer to You and bring glory to Your name. Keep my heart set on heaven, and guide me as I navigate the “what is next” moments of life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.