Do and say everything on purpose

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5:15-16‬ ‭ESV

One of my kids favorite responses to the question of why they did or said something is, “I don’t know.” Sometimes I think they may just not want to tell the reason, but most of the time I really don’t think they know. Unfortunately I think that same problem plagues people well into adulthood. And that, in itself, is the source of so many of our conflicts.

We have to live on purpose. As believers in Jesus, we are beckoned to the commission of living life intentionally. We are supposed to let our actions be a light before all those looking on so they will glorify God (Matthew 5). We are expected to only say things that build others up and benefit them (Ephesians 4). The goal of our lives is to be blameless and not complain (Philippians 2). The great commission calls us to tell the world about Jesus (Matthew 28). All of the commandments of God are wrapped up in loving Him and loving others (Mark 12).

If these aren’t the reasons we do and say things, then what are as doing? Those careless words and those pointless actions just lead to strife and wasted days. Life is to short and to precious to not live intentionally. Lets allow our words and actions to be filled with Christ. Then when we are asked to reason behind our words and deeds, we can point to Jesus.

Never Lose Your Wonder

Eagle Nubula

…Stand still and consider the wondrous works of God.

Job 37:14 NKJV

When is the last time you paused to think about all the amazing things God has done in your life? I mean, really contemplate them. Not the casual “thanks God” when something comes to mind. I believe what this verse is getting at is to actually stop, put everything else on hold, and focus entirely on the goodness of God. Set aside the worries, the to-do lists, the concerns of the hour, and meditate on the wondrous works of God. Imagine the perspective change that could give us. You may or may not find yourself in the place of Job, but circumstances don’t dictate our ability to marvel at all the Lord has done, is doing, and will do. This is more than stopping to smell the roses. This is allowing God’s track record to remake our mindset. Sure, responsibilities grow as we move through life, but we get weighed down because we lose sight of how much bigger God is. We stop dreaming. We stop imagining. We lose our wonder. May it never be so in me, and you dear reader.

Peace in Christ brothers and sisters