Living for God
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Philippians 2:6-11
6. who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7. but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. 9. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, 10. that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11. and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
1 Peter 4:1-11
1. Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same thought, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2. so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer by human passions but by the will of God. 3. Let the time that is past suffice for doing what the Gentiles like to do, living in licentiousness, passions, drunkenness, revels, carousing, and lawless idolatry. 4. They are surprised that you do not now join them in the same wild profligacy, and they abuse you; 5. but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6. For this is why the gospel was preached even to the dead, that though judged in the flesh like men, they might live in the spirit like God. 7. The end of all things is at hand; therefore keep sane and sober for your prayers. 8. Above all hold unfailing your love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9. Practice hospitality ungrudgingly to one another. 10. As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11. whoever speaks, as one who utters oracles of God; whoever renders service, as one who renders it by the strength which God supplies; in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen
Don’t look back with regret. Our conversion/salvation/redemption allows us to live in a way that is acceptable to God. Our faith allows us to forego approval from this world. Our belief in the risen Lord allows us to endure ridicule, contempt and possibly even persecution. But we don’t have time to worry about that!
We have a lot to do! We have gifts to employ for one another! We are to be good stewards of God’s varied grace! The end of all living things is at hand! We must keep sane and sober for our prayers! V4 in 1 Peter says “They are surprised that you do not now join them.” This world holds many attractions and temptations and lies. And seeking after immediate gratification, creature comforts and worldly approval is human nature. But Christ, who took the form of a human being showed us what is expected--and possible.
His divinity did not diminish his message. His refusing to call upon it and its power hold the key to the truth we live by. Christ, fully human, chose the path of servitude and suffering over power and glory. He resisted temptation as a man, he suffered as a man. He arose from the grave divine. That is what God expects, desires, and ultimately promises us! Repent, love each other as I love you. I created you and I love you. I made you who and what you are. Live life to the fullest. Never miss an opportunity to do good. Never complain. Never regret the price you’ve paid.
Because He loves us. And He waits for us in heaven. And we long for Him. And we cannot help but confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
I hope you live your day deliberately choosing the path of love, practicing hospitality, and employing your gifts at every opportunity.
Mary
