Christian Living

---

To every generation there is given the way and means to, in some measure, affect a meaningful legacy for those who follow after. At times the path to such an outcome is obvious, while at others, the road is gradual and veiled in mists of worry, weeping, and weariness.

How do we steward today the power that we have over tomorrow? Will our choices in daily living positively transform the future of children in our homes, our neighborhoods, and our communities?

For the Christian in particular, with the love of Jesus compelling him to lift up others, the wisdom of God’s Spirit guiding him in the administration of that love, and fervent passion for the glory of the Father catapulting him to action, he may not remain silent and aloof from the needs and opportunities to make a difference that have been presented to him.

For the few who give up nearly everything to faithfully serve in and through the Christian community: it is very difficult at times when one feels that the Christian community-at-large does not care.

This ought not be. The lives of the people of God have been knit together for purposes that transcend personal agendas. It is therefore imperative that we “heed the signs” in these days and allow the “attitude of Christ” to direct us in the choices that we daily make and the myriad ways that we spend our energies and resources.

“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, Who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:1-8 ESV).

Christians are free in Christ, but have not been made free to live selfishly. It is both reasonable and appropriate for God’s people to consider ways in which they can make things better for a world that they themselves may never see. “Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act” (Proverbs 3:27 NIV).

With a thousand and one practical reasons for caring for others being spouted off by a thousand and one charitable organizations, it would be nice indeed to think that “Christians” would allow simple love for the Lord to be the bottom line in how they respond to the doors opened to them.

In the end, the questions for a child of God are simply, “If Jesus’ Spirit is truly living in my heart as both Savior and Lord, how will He now have me spend the time, gifts, and resources with which I’ve been entrusted? How may I bring Him pleasure through my daily choices, attitudes, and habits? How can I be a real and present blessing to those with whom my life has been joined in the world today?”

May we each act, speak, and love others according to how He guides our conscience. If we open our hearts to allow His love and goodness to shape our choices, He will open gates of blessings for us, our children, and our community.

“…I seek the fruit that increases to your credit…. (Your gifts are) a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:17b, 18b-19 ESV).

Copyright © Thom Mollohan.

---

PLEASE ENCOURAGE AUTHOR BELOW LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE