Paul expanded on Jesus’ teaching on eternal perspective. He says, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). In other words, he devoted his entire life to carry out God’s Kingdom purpose. Later in this letter to the church of Philippi, he encourages the believers to follow his example. Unfortunately, some in the church 113 were not living this way. “Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things” (3:19). Before we look down on these brothers and sisters, we must consider our own lives. It is so easy to subtly get pulled into the values of the world. We start to have our time consumed with making more and more money to own newer and nicer things, achieving higher status, obtaining greater approval and affirmation from others, being loved by a significant other, and having better and better technology.
Though we may not be seeking this for ourselves, we can easily get consumed with attaining this for our children. Many mothers whom I talk with want their children to go to the best schools so they can get into the top universities. When I ask them why, they say because then their children will have better jobs and thus a more comfortable life. But I want to ask you: When does the Scripture say that our goal should be to have a more comfortable life? Paul says that we are to “make it our ambition to please the Lord. . . And He has committed to us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:9, 19).
When we put on the lens of eternity, it will change every aspect of our lives, including how we raise our children. As we model a life of making decisions based on God’s will, this influences our family and friends. A day will come when all of our deeds, words, intentions, and thoughts will be evaluated. That which is done for the glory of God will receive a reward. That which was for worldly or personal gain will be burned up and we will suffer loss. However, the Scripture says that through the blood of Christ we will be saved (see 1 Corinthians 3:12-15). One day we can lay our rewards at the feet of Jesus!
Remember to take time each day to allow the Spirit to search your heart. See if you are neglecting any of the lenses to see with His perspective: a lens to check your heart and be sure you are in a right place with God; a lens to reach out to love others with Christ’s love; and, a lens to live your life according to His eternal perspective.
Excerpt from More Beautiful By The Day - a devotional by Sue Corl
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