Morning Devotional

Christ lives in me, and I live by faith in Him and His love for me (Galatians 2:20).  

Throughout scripture there are many saying about who we are to be in Christ and the new life He brings to us. If I asked you the question, as a christian what are you doing for the next 5, 10 or 20 years, how would you answer? Would you think, retirement and the free time you might have? Grandchildren? Vacations? Volunteering? As I thought about this question posed to me my first thoughts were family related or church related. However, as i thought more about this question the  answer is; I want to focus on who I am becoming? What will I leave others to remember me by? That  question lead me to questions about my character. Tough question that I want ot share with you?

Does the words out of my mouth in public match my actions when no one is near? ( but God)

Do my emotions show who is in control of my life? In other words, does the world and its behavior override the character God wants for me?  I believe my character is best when Christ takes over the deepest parts of who I am and who I am becoming-- my heart, my mind, my soul and strength. I celebrate others success. I feel compassion for someone when they down or don't feel deserving of God's grace. I mourn with others and rejoice with others. I allow love to lead even when I could justify other means. Am I becoming more like Christ daily?

In 5 years will grace run out of me more or less? If I focus on who I am becoming and setting my goal to be more like Christ then the answer should be in 5 years I will have more grace to give.

I am becoming more about me and this world or more about who I am in God? Where is my focus? 

​What are you doing with the years you have left?  I want to thank the men's group in making me discern what I am doing the next twenty years or the years I have left. What do I want to leave as my legacy?  I hope we get a chance to see each other this morning as we celebrate ALL SAINTS DAY in this morning's worship time.

Almighty and amazing God I come before you knowing that you have forgiven me. Father, help me to grow in you. May I have the discipline to set aside the time daily to reflect on who I will be years from now as well as today. May my daily walk be lead by the gratitude of knowing what you have done for me. May my eyes be focused on growing in spirit and strength from above and not of this world. Lord, I know this is a challenge for even the most faithful but I also know Lord, it is possible. Thank you as I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen