Shadows Of The Real

Shadows of the Real

Have you ever seen a counterfeit fifty-dollar bill? You probably have and never knew it.

To the untrained eye, a counterfeit bill looks exactly like the genuine article. You have to know what to look for to spot the difference.

Lust is mistaken for love. Vanity is mistaken for self-confidence. Materialism for security. Substance abuse for pleasure. Career for purpose. Overeating for nourishment. Entertainment for joy.

But hear some good news: if you’ve found yourself obsessed with any of these counterfeits or shadows, realize that 1) you’re not alone, and 2) the basic need you’re seeking to fill is a need that comes from the very heart of God.

God wants you to have things such as love, self-confidence, security, pleasure, purpose, nourishment, and joy, but they are waiting for you outside the cave.

Why not turn around and see?

“Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisf y? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.” —Isaiah 55:2