When I was young, I thought I knew what would make me happy.
The stuffed purple dragon with shimmering scales and glittering wings. It was the most beautiful toy in the store—even better, if you put its mouth to your ear, it would whisper a kind secret.
Yup. I needed that dragon. I told my parents, “That dragon is all I need! If you get me that dragon, I’ll never ask for any toys again!”
As you can probably imagine, I didn’t make good on that promise.
I did get the dragon. I think my parents gave it to me for my birthday, or Christmas, or some other gift-giving occasion. And for a little while, I did play with it all the time.
But as days passed, my excitement faded. Soon, newer toys caught my eye at the store. The purple dragon didn’t satisfy me like I thought it would. I still wanted more, more, more.
I think we all have purple dragons in our lives.
It’s easy for me to look back now and know that there was no way getting a new stuffed animal would make me happy. But as we grow and change, we continue to seek satisfaction in things that aren’t meant to bring true fulfillment. We still have this idea that if only certain things would happen, life would get better.
- If only I could plan this trip.
- If only I could get a book publishing deal.
- If only I could get a new computer.
- If only I could get that job promotion.
- If only I could make that relationship work.
We all have our if only’s. And we tend to think life will look brighter and better and easier on the other side.
But we can never find satisfaction in material items, job promotions, relationships, or any of the things of this world.
We can only ever find true satisfaction in knowing we are loved by the Creator of the universe, and embracing His presence in our lives.
I love the words of Isaiah 58:11: “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”
So let’s root out the purple dragons in our lives.
Let’s exchange them for hope in something better—in something that will actually satisfy our hearts.
And never forget… you are onederfully created by the One who satisfies.
Love,
Becca
