herlucidlife

“For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit. The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬-‭11. 

When I first read this verse I assumed Christ was talking about dead folks, what if He’s also considering those spiritually dead? My actions are not always those of someone who lives in Christ. He’s still bringing to life parts of me that used to be dead. Doing my best to live life as the end is tomorrow. It’s easy to get caught up in thinking I have more time to do this or get this thing correct. The truth is no one has time. Time is only controlled by God. We do our best to calculate time with watches and calendars but truth be told that’s all in an effort to make us feel comfortable. One day is a thousand years to God, I have no concept of what “time” really holds and quite honestly it’s infinite. There really is no such thing as time, just the beginning and end of things in a continuous construct of life. 

God is patient, the end of all things has been near since Jesus was crucified. It simply means that believers have a responsibility to move with urgency when sharing the gospel. Sometimes my sin holds me back from sharing the word because I struggle with being obedient in my private life. Thinking that maybe I’m not the correct person to be sharing. That is all the more reason I should share. Sharing will hold me accountable. Being alert and of sober mind in order to pray. Connection with God is the backbone of why I worship. If I’m focused on my sin, my broken heart or anything else then how can I be alert? Alert looking for God to lead me to people to share with, looking for ways to be of service and love others. 

There’s so many ways the devil and even ourselves can close the door on intimacy with God. Loving others means we also love God, for no one can hate a man they see and say they love a God they can not see. Christ has covered every sin with His blood, the ultimate sign of love. I do my best to always keep my love on the table because that’s what God does for me everyday. I live to show God’s love in me. Everyone has a gift from God that can be used to serve others. Writing is one of my gifts so I share the words of God and my experience with readers. I believe we were placed on this earth to serve others.  Christ Himself was a servant, humble to the point of death. 

Every word, every action and every gift from God should be used to serve and build up. In that God receives the glory at all times.