Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

Hebrews 11

Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. v16

I know I should focus on the eternal - because I a foreigner and stranger on this earth.  My home is Heaven - where Christ has prepared a place for me.  

Jesus encourages me along similar lines:

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy,and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven,where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

Paul also writes about not conforming to the patterns of this world:

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

My Prayer: Jesus, You are a great God full of love and gentleness, compassion, patience, mercy, etc.  I know I am deserving of death for that is the wages of sin.  This morning I am full of lust and shame...please forgive me!  Help me turn from such sin and towards You.  Help me focus on the eternal and on You - so that I can avoid conforming to this world.  Instead I desire to renew my mind with Your Word, Your good, pleasing and perfect will.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength.  Help me love others as You do.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give me strength.  Give Lisa strength, comfort and freedom from pain.  Please heal and cure her of this cancer.  Help me lead and serve Lisa Zach and Dustin.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and everyday.