In a country with such diverse incomes, it seems that everyone, even the wealthy, are incredibly focused on how they can get more. They seem to think that the grass is greener on the other side. “If only” they say... What comes after that, is usually something connected with acquiring finances or “stuff.” The irony of this though, is that what we cannot buy, are the things that REALLY matter. Case in point: We have seen people with very little money who are incredibly happy and fulfilled, and those with much who are conversely very sad. Let’s look at some of these things that can’t be bought…
Loyalty~Sticking by people you say you love no matter what. Your word is solid, and those who are around you know, you're there for them always.
Health~Good genes help, but how you choose to live your life is paramount. Your body is God's holy temple, and keeping it healthy honors him.
Fitness~Our bodies were not meant to be inactive. Being physically active not only improves mental and physical health, but spiritual health as well.
Humility~An inflated need to compete isn't healthy, and it paints one in a bad light, so being a person who's humble is important and sets a good example.
Contentment~People's bad decisions and failures become a sort of jail as they age, but being at peace because you've chosen well, frees you from this.
Belief in God~If you've built your life on what God's will is and have made Him your sovereign Lord and Leader, your struggles in life will seem small.
A good marriage~One of the greatest things in life. Pledging your love to someone before God, and keeping that commitment is a blessing to all.
Well raised kids~Children who are confident and able to flourish in the world because of their upbringing. They bless you if/when they're raised well.
A sound mind~More difficult to acquire than a healthy body. It depends on what you put into it. You can't self-medicate or ingest negativity and be well.
Decency~Keeping moral standards high, allows decency to reign. If this isn't done, indecency creeps in. This happens when one breaks God's commands.
Patriotism~Should be implemented in our daily lives. You either love your country, or not. Most importantly, your actions must match your words!
Legacies~Passed down through the generations by implementing traditions, to ensure that families have something in common that keeps them together.
Intelligence~Some people have higher IQ's and some are lower, but having common sense is what makes one's intelligence serve them well in life.
Authenticity~Someone who is truthful about who they are. Not a poser. Who we claim to be should always align with our actions, especially as Christians.
Character~Who you are when no one is looking. Being a person of good character is a gift to others around you who may struggle to be this way.
True Friendships~Not mere acquaintances, but life-long relationships that last through the decades. People who truly want the best for one another.
Insight~It's important to be able to decipher the cues of those around you. The ability to read people well helps you to uncover someone's intentions.
Kindness~No matter what is going on in your life, you're respectful toward those around you, because you never know what they're going through.
Altruism~The selfless concern for the well-being of others. This is the action of giving without expecting anything back. It is present in good relationships.
Humor~Without this, getting through life isn't as easy. Either you can laugh at yourself or someone's humor, or you will take everything too seriously.
These are just a few of the things that cannot be bought, but are virtues or even gifts that some people are either blessed with, or have worked hard to acquire. Either way, it's important that we all realize that these are the important things in life, and without them, we cannot be people of substance. As you go into this season of summer, stop and thank God for all of the blessings that He has bestowed upon you and our country. Pray that we can all be people who live up to and appreciate all that we've been blessed with, rather than counting on superfluous “stuff,” to make us happy. And here’s a shout out to the fathers who worked hard at being there for their children. Their success is the result of your good leadership. God Bless you always! | 
