Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 28, 2016
Before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne”. Revelation 7:9-10
This life is preparation for the next life. Those who live only for this brief time on earth will one day wake up to a joyless eternity, but those who live intentionally for the next life will experience a joyful eternity. The object of our focus determines the level of our fulfillment. Focus on faith reaps faithfulness. Focus on generosity contributes to contentment. Concern for others protects from being consumed by petty personal issues. Deeply satisfied are Christians who invest their life in selfless service. Intentional living brings joy, because Jesus—the joy giver—is generous.
John describes a scene in heaven reminiscent of the Jewish custom of celebration during harvest time. Many had faithfully tilled the soil, planted the seeds and cultivated the tender plants, while God provided the growing conditions of rain and sunshine. Cooperation with the divine agenda reaped the Lord’s abundant provision. In addition, memories of the Lord’s past faithfulness were also included, as part of the intentional gratitude from God’s people. The white robes reference the righteous state of those cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. Walking with Jesus on earth is a life long apprenticeship for the worship of Jesus for eternity in heaven. Joy is a choice!
“As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God” (1 Peter 4:2).
Is the rudder of your life custom crafted by the love of Christ or are you rudderless, adrift on the rough sea of life? When Jesus the Lord guides your life—He gives you life. If God is your guide you will go places with Him that are impossible without Him. This is the joy of doing life with Jesus—not busily doing life for Jesus. The Holy Spirit’s rhythm of life is not without challenges, but He is in harmony with what’s best. At the core of His calling is joy and peace. Quietly experience Spirit led intentionality and the Lord’s joy will strengthen your spirit.
What areas of your life long for prayerful intentionality? Certainly pursuit of a growing relationship with Christ feeds our soul, humbles our heart and expands our mind. A daily investment of time with the Truth and the Life will grow us in wisdom and be a light to our life. People and God’s word are investments that last forever, so intentionality with those who do not know Jesus, harvests joy on earth and rejoicing in heaven. Who are you praying for that needs the Lord? Ask for ways to love those who need to know the Way. Intentional love results in joy.
“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought the field” (Matthew 13:44).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, guide me by Your Spirit to see opportunities to love the lost.Application
Who in my life doesn’t know the Lord? How can I be Jesus to them?Related Reading
Isaiah 49:13; Psalm 145:7; Luke 10:20; Romans 12:12; Colossians 1:12Post/Tweet today
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