2 Corinthians 5:9-21
Vs. 15: “And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for Him who died for them and was raised again.”
Mark Twain once cautioned, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” He encouraged people to live life carefree: to “leave safe harbors” and “cast the trade winds in their sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
God knits each person differently in the mother’s womb to be distinct, special, and unique. (Psalm 139:13). So while Mr. Twain’s advice emboldens some people, it scares others. ‘Safe harbors’ and ‘trade winds blowing sails’ are metaphors (MET*a* fors) that describe different ways to approach life. Some people are naturally cautious, apprehensive, and seek serenity. Others are daring, bold, and excited by adventure.
Safe harbor living is secure, sheltered, and peaceful. Is it also boring?
Being tossed about by life’s trade winds is wild, uncertain, on the edge—never boring! But is this life pattern a smart way to live?
Most people choose to live their lives somewhere between these two extreme metaphors. Every person needs some degree of security, but when a door opens in one’s life that appears to answer every prayer, how long should you hesitate before grasping the opportunity? As children of the Holy Sovereign God of the Universe,
what kind of living should we dare?
Life is exciting when you live your passion.
The apostle Paul’s passion was driven by concern for the destiny of others. Three things fueled this passion: 1) He recognized that he was accountable to Christ. 2) He knew the love of Jesus and wanted others to experience the Savior’s love. 3) He understood that a lost and dying world needs Christ.
What are you passionate about? It is not unusual to take years of exploring different avenues before stumbling upon that which lights your fire.
Paul was fired up by Christ’s love, which kindled the flame that fueled his career path.
Does Jesus’ love fuel your passion to live for Christ?
Take Home Nugget
This is the time of year for making New Year’s resolutions. Beginning 2008, I signed a contract to surrender my life to Jesus—following Him wherever He leads.
Trade winds that whipped my sail often led to stormy seas, but I know the One Who is in control, and trust Him to land me safely.
This wild ride keeps me in prayer, developing a closer relationship with my King Jesus. (A safe harbor is always a good place to rest during a storm).
Share your passion with me. What is your New Year’s resolution?
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009 BROTHERS AND SISTERS!
J.D. Griffith
Set us afire, Lord, stir us we pray!
While the world perishes, we go our way
Purposeless, passionless, day after day;
Set us afire, Lord, stir us we pray!
Cushman
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