As summer winds down and I start back to school next week I encourage myself to make the most of each day even when circumstances are difficult. All any of us have is today and I want to be thankful, stay positive, and live it to the fullest for Jesus. Each day is a gift, but not just to spend on myself. Instead it should be re-gifted and invested in others.
Jesus said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 10:45). The apostle, Paul, exhorted believers to have the same attitude as Jesus, “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4).
I can’t do this in my own strength, but by relying on Jesus through his Holy Spirit I can. In practical terms this humble, reliant, servanthood plays out in different ways from day to day. But it seems my best days typically include choosing to sing God’s praises, study his word, share his truth, serve people, stand in the gap to intercede for others, and stay dependent on God. (I explain these further on the Light Runner website in a document titled “Today for Jesus” found under the Resources section).
As I rise to greet each day of this coming school year I want to remember to ask God, “How can I be a blessing to others for your glory?” and then let him work through me to do it. Loving God and loving others is the greatest activity each of us can do. I hope various notes have been a blessing to you to help you discover a rich, abundant life in Christ. Are you doing well? Is there anything you would like me to pray about for you? Have a great week, as you are blessed to be a blessing day by day.