Hebrews 12:15-16 (msg) Keep a sharp eye out for weeds of bitter discontent. A thistle or two gone to seed can ruin a whole garden in no time. Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God’s lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite.

I love that the above verse is sandwiched between Paul reminding us that God is training us, His children to “live God’s holy best”, and God’s unshakable kingdom. 

While the above verse is very useful advice as a stand alone verse, there is some deep assurance of God’s completeness when left in its context. As God trains us through the experiences of this world, are we going to embrace His guidance and ways or are we going to let the weeds of discontent take root and start chasing mirages of goodness instead of the real thing? Trading God’s lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. Then Paul goes onto assure us that God will shake or sift out all that is dead so that all that is left is the unshakable kingdom, what is truly good and pure and righteous. The thistles will be gone, along with all the excess – leaving only what is essential – Him, in all His Glory and us with Him, should we choose.

Discontent is a funny and sneaky thing, little twinges that keep us guessing and second-guessing, chasing tails, and coming up empty. There is a Life of contentment in being His – not because of anything we have done or not done – not because we deserve it – but because of who God is. Why do we give up so much for so little? 

Lord, thank you for never ever giving up on us. Protect us from the stirring discontent that eats our world: always wanting and always lacking. You are all we need and so much more – let our hearts rest in Your Sovereign Love. We wait on you Lord. Amen.