For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s (Romans 14:8).
In life, many grapple with discontentment, burdened by various concerns and life’s challenges. Often, their dissatisfaction stems from not having learnt the value and fulfilment of living unto Christ. Living unto Him means finding contentment and fulfilment in what pleases Him, and your displeasure is confined to that which also displeases Him.
In other words, your displeasure can only be a reflection of His displeasure, which means you’ll take nothing personally; you become impervious to personal offences. If you claim to be living unto the Lord, but still harbour hurt, offence, or anger, it raises the question of whether your desire to please the Lord is genuine.
It brings to mind the story in 1 Samuel 8:4-7; the elders of Israel approached the prophet Samuel at Ramah, expressing their desire for a king to rule over them like other nations. Samuel, displeased by their request, prayed to the Lord. God responded, instructing Samuel to heed the people’s voice, clarifying that their request was a rejection of Him as their King rather than a rejection of Samuel.
The prophet Samuel felt personally offended, but God corrected and taught him a great lesson about being impervious to hurts, as it was about Him, not Samuel. Living for the Lord involves transcending personal feelings and aligning yourself with His divine will.
Confession/Prayer
Dear Father, I choose to live unto you and please you at all times, full of love towards others. I align my desires with your divine will, and my joy and satisfaction come from pleasing you, living for you, and fulfilling my purpose in Christ. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY
Colossians 3:23; Galatians 1:10; 1 Samuel 8:4-7
1-year bible reading plan
Luke 9:37-62; Joshua 16-19
2-year bible reading plan
Romans 6:12-23; Psalm 106