Based on “Living and Dying for What?” by Pastor Mark Balmer; 7/10-11/10,
Message # 6054; Daily Devotional #6 - “The Big Board Game”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction): He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:29-31). It is interesting to see how we all differ in our preferences, interests, and aspirations, yet God almighty, creator of the universe, is a sun and shield over us all. Our goals and focus in life are the strongest indicators of who we really are and who the “center of our world” is. People go through ups and downs in life. Some experiences can be tough, perhaps the loss of a loved one, job loss, or even illness. No matter where we are in life, God has a purpose for every existence. You and I are on a life mission, not just making up the world’s population!
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the Head over every power and authority. (Colossians 2:9-10). Christ followers carry the life of God on the inside. The Spirit of God awakens us to God’s purposes, and then we really see the ‘bigger picture’. It is important that we see life just the way God does for us to live meaningfully. Knowing that our lives are ‘hidden’ in Christ, and whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s, makes us aware that each new day gives us another opportunity to live for Christ.
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (2 Corinthians 4:16-17).
Jesus, You are the center of my joy
All that is good and perfect comes from You
You are the hope of my contentment, joy in all I do
Jesus, You are the center of my joy.
“Center of My Joy” ©1987, CCLI #165937
Words & music by Bill Gaither, Gloria Gaither & Richard Smallwood
Life in Christ is not a big board game! In board games, there are winners and losers. With Christ Jesus, we are winners every time; He always causes us to triumph. (2 Corinthians 2:14).
Dear one, who and what takes priority in our lives? The answer to that question may determine our eternal destiny. God expects us to live Christ centered and Holy Spirit filled lives. Everyday opens up channels of blessings and fountains of joy to the people around us.
LO
Calvary Chapel of Melbourne; 2955 Minton Road; W. Melbourne, FL 32904; 321-952-9673
All Bible references are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted.