Be All In
Lately I’ve been asking myself do I even look like a Christian to those around me. Have I fully given myself over to God and his plans for my life? Do I really trust him, or do I believe my plans, my goals, my desires are better than his are for my life?
“in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:6 NIVUK
Am I living that abundant life the scriptures speak of or is it a life of mediocrity? How tragic would it be to find out, when I finish this life, that I wasn’t on the path God had laid out for me. That I hadn’t lived my life to the fullest.
“My child, if you truly want a long and satisfying life, never forget the things that I’ve taught you. Follow closely every truth that I’ve given you. Then you will have a full, rewarding life.” Proverbs 3:1-2 TPT
Recently I’ve been reading about Paul, formerly Saul, in Acts, looking at the path he was on. When we first read about him, as Saul, he was persecuting Jesus’ followers until his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). Up until that time he truly believed he was on the right path doing God’s work. I wonder how many of us think we are on Gods path when in reality we are going our own way just like Saul was After that encounter he became a role model for living the Godly life to its fullest. He learned in short time to fully trust God.
I’m trying to incorporate Paul’s way of living in my life. His goal to know Jesus better is my goal too. To live a life full of joy, no matter my circumstances. To share with anyone who cares to listen the changes Jesus had made in me since giving my life to him and how His wonderful mercy, grace, love and unmerited favour are available to everyone. I have decided I must do all I can to be all in. Fully committed, fully surrendered, fully trusting God.
But none of these things move me; neither do I esteem my life dear to myself, if only I may finish my course with joy and the ministry which I have obtained from [which was entrusted to me by] the Lord Jesus, faithfully to attest to the good news (Gospel) of God's grace (His unmerited favor, spiritual blessing, and mercy). Acts 20:24 AMPC
I need to change my mindset, my attitude, my selfish ways. If I don’t do something different, how can I expect different results. How can I expect to live that abundant life promised by God!
“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).” John 10:10 AMPC
“But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides.” Matthew 6:33 AMPC
I’m taking time this week to seek God first. Seek his will for my life. Asking him to help me peruse his path, his direction, the things that align with his will over my wants, needs and desires. I’m trying to hold on to the truth that once I hand over all my goals, spiritual, personal, financial, relational and make Jesus my primary focus everything else will fall into place without me needing a Damascus encounter!
Praying God will send us all a revelation of how to walk the path he’s set before us, so we won’t labour in vain but accomplish the good works he has set before us. Amen.