Written by Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:19-21
I have had the privilege of being with many people as they neared death.
In all those instances, not once did I hear someone look back on their life and say, “You know, Bryant, I really wish I had made more money. If only I’d worked harder, I could’ve made a whole lot more money.” I’ve also never heard, “I wish I had accomplished more.”
What people on their deathbed DO say often has something to do with relationship regret.
“I wish I had done more for someone.”
“I wish I had spent more time with them.”
“I wish I had focused more on the relationships that matter.”
Can you relate? For some, you remember a loved one gone too soon. If only you’d taken advantage of the time you had together. For others, you’re well aware of how important certain people are in your life. You’re probably thinking, “I know this. There’s nothing new here.”
Well, hold on a second. While many people may understand this lesson intellectually, actually living it out proves to be much more difficult. We might “know” this in our heads, but are we living this out in our hearts?
The fact is, when people ask me to identify the ultimate meaning of life, I always respond the same way: relationships. Ultimate meaning is found in the relationships we have with those closest to us. Your most important relationship is, of course, with God, but your last moments on this earth will be so very empty if they are spent agonizing over failed relationships with family, friends, or those you may have wronged.
So, who do you need to reach out to? Who do you need to prioritize?
Don’t waste another moment.
Act now to ensure that your last moments on earth aren’t full of relationship regret but praising God for the life you’ve lived in anticipation of the glory of heaven that awaits.
DIG DEEPER
Read “Are You Willing to Share Your Story?” also by Bryant Wright