X marked the spot on the aged map that was to supposedly lead to a treasure that was once captured by Edward Thach, otherwise known to history as the notorious pirate, Blackbeard. Ed had often heard of the stories and legends passed down from generation to generation of the possibility he was a descendant of a pirate.
One day Ed was packing things away to move. He took down a family picture of his great grandparents when he tripped over a box. Ed caught himself before he fell, but the picture plunged to the floor shattering the glass that had protected the picture for years. With a tinge of anger at himself Ed began picking up broken pieces of glass when he realized that behind the picture was the map he had heard about from his youth.
Ed’s anger quickly turned to excitement as he contemplated the possibility of discovering a hidden treasure. Thoughts of finding fulfillment in life and great joy flooded his mind as he gazed over the map. The map gave directions to various locations that would help uncover truths of the whereabouts of the hidden treasures. Most importantly the map revealed ways to get through obstacles that were devised to stop others from unearthing the treasure.
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all find an old map that would help us get through obstacles and eventually lead us to a treasure that could bring us fulfillment and joy. The amazing thing is that most people have such a map, or have access to get one. It is called the Bible. For generations this best-selling book has guided many on a journey through wars, devastation, floods, plagues, times of peace and love to find joy in life’s treasures and peace in the midst of life’s tragedies.
Pastor and author, Charles Stanley once taught about “discovering God’s will,” which in order to do so he wrote about getting rid of distractions in our lives. Distractions often will hinder our faith which will create obstacles that will stunt our spiritual growth and maturity. Once we rid ourselves of distractions the next step is to seek. Once we are seeking we need to think on God.
Temptation is not sin, but all sin is brought about by a thought that becomes a temptation. Therefore, if we can think on Godly things this will be a weapon to destroy sin from entering in. As we are able to think of God then our behaviors will also reflect what our thoughts are. 1 Thessalonians 4 teaches four ways to please God by the way we live and Hebrews 10:36 lets us know of the promises we can receive by doing the will of God.
This treasure map can truly change your life. Over generations there are many examples and testimonies of lives being changed by people from all walks of life following this “map.” We are reminded in the gospel of Matthew to not store up for ourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves steal. But, to store up for ourselves treasures in Heaven where nothing can destroy. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” If you feel you have lost direction in your life, or you know you have never had it, then find the true Treasure Map . X won’t mark the spot but, God will.
Re- written from December 1, 1999.
~TRS
Rays of Hope 