Have you ever felt like you’re always running after something—more money, the newest phone, a dream car, or the “perfect” home? It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of getting more, especially when social media makes it look like everyone else is upgrading their life every other week.
When people talk about “earthly things,” they usually mean material possessions and outward achievements—the things we can buy, own, post about, or brag about. There’s nothing wrong with wanting a comfortable life. The trouble starts when these things become our main focus, like they’re the only way to feel successful or secure.
Here’s the tricky part: the feeling we get from a new purchase or big achievement usually doesn’t last. Once we get the thing we wanted, we feel good for a while… and then something else shows up on the horizon. A newer model. A bigger goal. A nicer version. It turns into an endless loop of “I’ll be happy when…”
You might be stuck in this cycle if you notice things like:
- Constant comparing—your life feels “less than” when you look at what others have.
- Always feeling behind—even when you hit a goal, it doesn’t feel like enough.
- Stress around money—not just bills, but pressure to keep up a certain image.
- Little time for what matters—relationships, rest, health, spiritual growth and joy get pushed aside.
- Short-lived excitement—the thrill fades quickly, and you need the next thing to feel good again.
Over time, chasing after material things can leave us feeling empty or exhausted. We start measuring ourselves by what we own instead of who we are. We may work longer hours, worry more, and still feel like we’re not “there” yet. And without realizing it, we can neglect the very things that actually make life rich—our loved ones, our health, our faith, our peace of mind, and the small moments that make us feel alive.
Real happiness usually comes from things you can’t put in a shopping cart: meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose, helping others, and gratitude for what you already have. These don’t sparkle like a new gadget, but they last longer and go deeper.
A Simple Pause to Reset Your Focus
The next time you feel the urge to chase the next big thing, try pausing and asking:
- Do I really need this, or do I just want the feeling I think it will give me?
- Am I buying this because it fits my values—or because I’m trying to keep up?
- What might I be ignoring in my life right now (health, family, rest, faith, friendships)?
- If I didn’t post about it, would I still want it as much?
You don’t have to reject material goals completely—just keep them in their place. Try balancing them with things that feed your heart and soul:
- Spend intentional time with people you love (even a short call counts).
- Practice gratitude—write down three good things about your day.
- Focus on spiritual growth—make time for prayer, reflection, and learning that strengthens your faith.
- Choose experiences over items when you can (a walk, a meal together, a hobby).
- Give or serve in a small way—generosity has a way of grounding us.
- Rest and care for your health; peace is worth more than pressure.
Chasing after earthly things can feel like running on a treadmill—you’re moving a lot, but you don’t always feel like you’re getting anywhere. True fulfillment grows when we build a life that isn’t just about what we own, but about who we’re becoming and how we’re loving others along the way.
Small reminder: the shine of new stuff fades—but kindness, love, and purpose keep giving back.
Minister A Francine Green, May 2026