By Him and For Him .
Colossians 1:16-17 KJV

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Just in case we begin to think we deserve the credit, glory and praise for all we have and all we have accomplished in this life; just in case we believe our lives are our own to do with as we will: read these two verses to be reminded of the true source of every good thing in your life!

“By him all things consist.” My RSV version of this reads, “and in him all things hold together.” Our lives belong to God and our purpose is to praise him for all we have and for all he’s made. This life, this day, this hour are His and His alone. Framing our lives that way gives things a little different twist doesn’t it?

The flip side of this scripture is that He will care for us in every circumstance. God created all things in heaven and on earth – that includes you and me. The Creator doesn’t just forget about his work and put it aside – he lovingly cares for it, preserves it, protects it from harm. We are so much more valuable to our Maker than we can ever imagine!

When I read “all things hold together,” I’m reminded of the song He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands. I even picture Earth resting in the palm of his hand. Some may cast of the image of control that presents. I find it very comforting and feel secure and cared for when I form that image. The God who created heaven also created me. The God of all things seen and unseen sees me and knows every aspect of my being.

How can we live any other way than to honor and praise him? How can we not strive to reflect His glory and His love? How can we even imagine squandering a single day of our lives? He created us for himself. He wants us to seek him and to rely upon him; he also wants us to worship him and remember he is the source of all things.

Don’t worship kings and moguls. Don’t idolize the rich and famous. Give your life to God. Worship Him. Praise Him. Devote your life to thanking him for the gift of your life and the unspeakable blessing of his grace.

My prayer today is that you bow down before him, casting aside any earthly hold upon your life and your heart. And that you speak His name with gratitude and thanksgiving.

Mary  ¶ 6:14 AM