Who Are You Living For?
Saul had it all. He knew the right people, had the right job, and came from the right place. Only one problem—He was a violent opponent to the followers of Jesus. He’d specifically seek them out to imprison or kill them.
One day, Saul was traveling to the city of Damascus to arrest followers of Jesus and bring them to Jerusalem. Suddenly, a bright light appeared before Saul. Falling to the ground, he heard Jesus ask, “Why do you persecute me?” After this encounter, Saul was blind for three days. God instructed Ananias to restore Saul’s sight.
Saul’s encounter with Jesus began a radical transformation in His life. No longer was he interested in making life difficult for followers of Jesus, but he was eager to join them! Eventually, Saul became known as the Apostle Paul—who traveled great distances to share the Gospel. He also wrote a large portion of the New Testament.
Paul’s new life was very different from the one he left behind. Instead of holding an important religious position, he was a wandering street preacher. Instead of being highly regarded by important people, he was often falsely accused and sent to prison.
God’s transforming power took a strong opponent to Jesus and made him a strong advocate for the Gospel! Paul no longer cared about gaining the approval of important people or being highly regarded. In fact, he wrote, “I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done” (Philippians 3:7 NLT).
Do you ever feel like you struggle to change? Today, remember that the same God who transformed Saul into Paul is alive and active! And, He wants to help you. Bring the areas where you’re struggling to change before Him in prayer—and watch God work!
Choose Thankfulness
For years, nothing in King David’s life looked “good.” His family underestimated him, giants despised him, and his father-in-law spent years trying to kill him. But the whole time, David clung to a promise that God would establish him, and eventually make him king of Israel.
David never gave up or gave in—he chose to stay close to God and wait for Him to act. And when God showed up, this is how David responded:
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
1 Chronicles 16:34 NIV
David knew that even when life didn’t look good, he served a God who IS good. And this same God is still actively fighting for us now.
Through His Son, Jesus, He has given us continual access to Himself. We can never lose His unfailing love toward us—a love that endures forever, no matter what goes on around us.
David recognized this, and proclaimed it. And every day, we have the opportunity to do the same.
Here are 2 practical ways that we can respond to ...