What Do You See?

Click Here for Today's Reading: Gen 13–15 | Prov 2:9–22 | Luke 5

Scripture: “¹² Abram lived in the land of Canaan, but Lot lived in the cities on the plain and set up his tent near Sodom.” — Genesis 13:10–13 (CSB)

When Abram looked, he saw with eyes of faith. When Lot looked, he saw with eyes of materialism. Lot saw the glitter of material wealth but failed to see the sin that came with it. Sin often promises wealth, comfort, and a “good time,” but none of it lasts. It blinds us to the spiritual danger hiding beneath the surface.

When I was managing a sporting goods store that specialized in hunting and fishing products, I learned firsthand the allure of materialism. It felt like Christmas every day—new product shows, new releases, and daily orders of the latest firearms, bows, and accessories. Like Lot, I didn’t just “look at them”—I wanted them. The desire for more can subtly take root in any heart.

Lot’s choice devastated him. He placed himself and his family in the middle of wickedness. God judged Sodom and destroyed it, and Lot’s wife—so attached to what she was losing—looked back and died. Materialism always leads us toward spiritual danger.

Reflection: How have you encountered the temptation of materialism? Where might your eyes be drifting toward temporary gain instead of eternal good?

Prayer: Lord, guard my heart and eyes from the temptation of materialism. Help me see with faith, not with fleshly desire. Keep me close to You and far from anything that would pull me toward sin. Make my choices reflect Your wisdom and not the world’s values.