What really matters?

The cry from the streets across America today is “Black Lives Matter.” Right next to them are signs saying, “All Lives Matter,” or “Blue Lives Matter.” On the next block the battle cry is for living wages for all people regardless of age, race, gender or education because that is most important to them.
Some might say that what really matters is that all people have food, shelter and clean water. 
What about all the aborted babies? Is saving lives of the unborn what really matters? 
Millions of kids and adults are caught in the cruel grasp of human trafficking. Is freeing these victims what really matters?
Another group of people speak of the environment as that is what really matters.  Some have even predicted we are just a few short years from our end because of climate change.
What really does matter? Of all the problems, what really matters?
People’s lives are important. Safety and basic necessities are important. The environment is important, but what is the most important issue every person must face?
What really matters is your relationship with God.  When you look at all the issues that people face, God is the issue that is most critical.  If everyone’s relationship with God was correct, all of the world’s problems would be resolved.
You don’t repaint your car to fix a flat tire. If your water heater quits working, you don’t recarpet the house.  As a people we see problems, but we change the paint, hoping it will fix the problem.  Paint can cover rotten wood, but it doesn’t fix the problem.
A person with a right relationship with God is kind, compassionate and forgiving.  A person who seeks God’s desires above their own desires will see others as a gift from God regardless of any issues.
The Bible repeatedly tells us that one day everyone will give an account to God for their belief in Him. What really matters above all else is your relationship with God.
What is a right relationship with God?  Moses says, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5)  He goes on to say it is a part of all of your life from when you wake up to when you fall asleep. 
What does really matter when all the chips are down?  How you and God are getting along. Not your terms, but God’s terms. Focus on what matters this week.