Back in Biblical days, land was essential to a good prosperous life. A man could feed his family, feed others, make money from the sale of crops, and pass on an inheritance to his children. It was a means to provide generational wealth, not just current personal wealth. It was essentially a gift from God that was foundational for a person to have a good life, not only for himself, but his family and others.

Recently I’ve see someone walk away from their marriage. There was no infidelity by the other spouse, no verbal, physical or emotional abuse. No fights over in-laws, money or any of the “normal” things that are associated with failed marriages. There was no “Biblical” reason for the divorce. The one spouse simply decided that they were unhappy and could find happiness somewhere else. The one spouse left a godly spouse, a home where they both had stable well paying jobs, a stable environment for their children, a good network of supportive friends and associates; all the things that are foundational for the development of a good life.

But this person went after “worthless pursuits”, i.e., new lifestyle, new set of friends, new habits, new freedoms — all the things they thought would bring them more happiness. But when those “pursuits” vanished like vapor before their eyes, it was too late to go back; the damage was done. They lost all the things that are essential to a good life: peace, joy, stability and their own closeness with the Lord. They had “lost their land” and now they are experiencing lack.

In ancient Israelite culture, “worthless pursuits” included the concept of emptiness or vanity. It was often associated with idolatry, and the pursuit of material wealth over spiritual richness. The Bible often warns against placing trust in “worthless pursuits” highlighting the futility of relying on anything other than God. True fulfillment and purpose are found in a personal relationship with Christ. When you abandon Christ, you abandon the One Who chose you, saved you, created all things including you, and has all things held together through Him (Colossians 1:15-17).

What kind of “pursuits” have you been chasing lately? Is it in the area of relationships? Career? Status? Influence over others? Selfish, sensual, or emotional ambitions? Are you being “wise in your own eyes” (Proverbs 3:5-8) and not allowing Him to “make your path straight”? Are you in the process of losing your land…that which God has given you to “cultivate”? What’s driving you? If you have already lost your land, what led you to the loss? How do you feel about it now? Regret? Feel nothing? Comfortable with your justification? How you view “worthless pursuits” and the “loss of land”, is really a reflection of your heart and your personal relationship with God.

Get in right relationship with God. Pursue Him first, and let Him guide you step by step, trusting in His character and love for you. Don’t chase “pursuits” that will ultimately leave you empty and in want. You could easily lose and/or damage what you value most (close relationships, children, self-respect, peace, stability, your mental, physical and spiritual health).

Invest your time cultivating your personal relationship with Christ and the land God has given you. It may not be much now, but over time He will make the good seeds grow and provide you a harvest greater and more satisfying than you can imagine.