If I Won The Lottery

Read

Psalm 27:4 "One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple."

Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Think

A few years ago, Jimmy Fallon asked his viewers what they would do if they won the lottery. The responses poured in—people said they’d buy islands, build roller coasters in their backyards, or fill their closets with designer clothes. Most answers were funny and outlandish, but they reflected a common belief: the good life comes from having more. We often approach God with this same “lottery” mentality, expecting him to provide us with whatever will make our lives feel fuller or more successful. But King David, in Psalm 27, paints a different picture of what it means to truly "win."

It wasn’t about a bigger kingdom, a stronger army, or vast riches for David. In verse 4, he says, “One thing I ask from the Lord… to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.” David’s idea of winning was simply to be with God. Imagine that for a moment: instead of striving for wealth, power, or security, David found his greatest joy in God's presence. He didn't see it as an obligation but a source of true satisfaction. To him, being near God was far better than any earthly gain.

What if we had that same perspective? Imagine finding your worth not in achievements or possessions but in simply being with Christ. Imagine moving from knowing about God to genuinely knowing him—experiencing his closeness, his comfort, and his peace. Picture a life where you seek answers from God, and he offers his presence instead of a solution, and you’re satisfied. That’s the kind of deep contentment David speaks of—a relationship with God that fulfills us beyond our wildest dreams, far more than any “lottery win” ever could.

Apply

When you start your day, before thinking about what you need or want, take a moment to pray and seek God's presence first. Ask him to guide your heart, help you prioritize him, and trust that everything else will fall into place.

Pray

Lord, today I choose to seek you first. Help me to desire your presence more than anything else in my life. Teach me to trust that when I put you first, you will take care of the rest. In Jesus’ name. Amen.