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Jesus Gives Us Purpose
Tim Savage10This is why we work hard and continue to struggle,for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.11Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them.12Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.1 Timothy 4
Wouldn’t it be great if following Jesus saved us from hard work and struggle?People would line up to follow Him if that were the case.No, our faith doesn’t absolve us of hard work and struggle, but it gives us a purpose and a reason to live.I feel sorry for those without purpose, without God in their lives, what’s it all for?Because of Jesus we have a reward waiting for us at the finish line; that makes it all worth it, that’s the reason to keep living for Christ.Our job is to be an example to both believers and non-believers, encouraging them in their faith by the way we live.
God has placed us around others who need to be encouraged.Do my words build people up or tear them down?Is my life an example that draws people to the Lord or repels them?I’ve seen so many posts on social media that make non-believers angry and make them want to have nothing to do with Christians.We should be loving, caring and gracious.We must not compromise our beliefs or the word of God, but neither should we be judgmental or hateful.It’s a fine line to walk and a balancing act, but others have to respect us in order to listen to our message.We definitely won’t agree on everything, with some people I wonder if we agree on anything (!), but if they respect me then there is a chance they will listen to me.God is my purpose and in Him I have a reason to work hard and live right.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to be an example and an encouragement to those around me.May my words and actions draw people closer to You.
In Jesus name,
Amen
