A Wisp of Vapor

“Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen in your life tomorrow. [What is secure in your life?] You are merely a vapor … that is visible for a little while and then vanishes [into thin air].”—James 4:14 AMP

“I remember my youth … the feeling that I could last forever.” These impressions were the work of Joseph Conrad in his novel Youth. His words express feelings common to young people, for whom it seems life will never end. Yet as we age, we understand more clearly that life is short. The Bible says it is like “a wisp of vapor.” It quickly fades and is gone.

Many marketers want us to forget these facts, urging us to live for today and trying to persuade us that we will find contentment and pleasure through more things and more experiences. We constantly are being bombarded with announcements designed to leave us discontent and lusting after things and experiences.

In themselves, there is nothing wrong with new things. But we must remember that these things can be just “chasing the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:14). These pleasures that don’t last can distract us, consume our hearts, and take our minds off serving God.

Ask God to give you His perspective on your life and the things of this world. Don’t spend your time just chasing the wind or pursuing things that cannot produce lasting satisfaction.

Ask Him to help you evaluate your heart. Where is your treasure? What are you doing with your time and resources? Remember, life is like a wisp of vapor—gone in a flash. Make your life count into eternity. Invest in God’s Kingdom.

Reflection Question: Based on how you spend your time and your money, where is your treasure?