What’s In Your Bag?

“…Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. Luke 12:33

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It scared the wits out of me for years. ”They knock your feet right out from under you,” said one friend. “Don’t walk in alone,” advised another. “Go with a gang.”

Each fall a certain manufacturer of colorful, stylish cloth handbags, backpacks, luggage, and coin purses, conducts an outlet sale at a location close to my home. This event attracts hundreds of thousands of shoppers each year looking for deals.

Despite the proximity, I had avoided attending the outlet sale. Every woman knows being stampeded by female shoppers looking for good deals is 10 times worse than being stampeded by male shoppers looking for good deals! However, last year I decided to attend and purchase items for Christmas presents. I left a note at home, so if the other shoppers trampled me to death, my husband would know where to find me.

Needless to say, I survived. The experience was even somewhat pleasant. Customers shopped companionably beside each other with no fighting over a particular handbag.

While walking to my car after making my purchases, I wondered about the fuss. Jesus warned against obsessing over items that have no eternal significance and which would eventually wear out. Why did he mention purses in particular? Was it because He knew women would love them for centuries to come?

Prayer: You know my wants and desires so well, Father. Please help me to control my spending habits so they honor you.