The Elusive Dream
A Life of Longing
Have you ever felt like something was missing, despite having everything you thought you wanted? This sense of emptiness can be overwhelming, driving us to chase after fleeting dreams that promise to fill the void. Jacob, from the biblical account in Genesis 29:25, knew this feeling all too well.
The Illusion of Happiness
Laban, Jacob’s father-in-law, had two daughters: Rachel, the stunning beauty, and Leah, who had an eye problem. Jacob was captivated by Rachel and agreed to work seven years for free to win her hand in marriage. But when the wedding day arrived, Laban pulled a bait-and-switch, giving Jacob Leah instead. Why did Jacob long for Rachel so intensely? His life was devoid of love and connection. He had lost his father’s affection, his mother’s love, and felt disconnected from God’s love. Rachel represented a chance to fill that void.
The False Promises of the World
We live in a world that tantalizes us with empty promises of happiness through wealth, sex, power, and prestige. We believe that if we can just attain this or that, our lives will be complete. But C.S. Lewis wisely noted, “Most people, if they have really learned to look into their own hearts, would know that they do want, and want acutely, something that cannot be had in this world.” We’re motivated by external factors, but ultimately, we’re left feeling unfulfilled.
The Unquenchable Thirst
Even Alexander the Great, who conquered the known world by his thirties, cried out in despair, “Are there no more worlds to conquer?” The grass may seem greener on the other side, but it’s often more difficult to maintain. The truth is, as long as we prioritize anything other than a genuine, worshipful relationship with God, we’ll be disappointed in the end. We’ll chase after fleeting dreams, only to wake up to an unfulfilling reality.
A Life of Fulfillment
I recently saw a billboard that proclaimed, “Life is a race; enjoy it to the fullest.” But life isn’t a race; it’s a journey of discovery and growth. It’s about becoming the person God uniquely created us to be. So, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Him and live life to the utmost. Only then will we find true fulfillment and purpose.
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