The Results of a Life Wasted
Woe to you who put far off the day of doom, who cause the seat of violence to come near… They shall now go captive as the first of the captives, and those who recline at banquets shall be removed. Amos 6:3, 7
Jesus said that few people enter by the narrow gate, which leads to life, while many take the way of the wide gate, which leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13, 14). Christ took the challenge of taking the narrow path. He died painfully so we could live gainfully.
Living with Christ in us is the only way to live a life of purpose. He came to demonstrate love and joy. He said, “I came so your joy may be full” (John 15:11), and taught that this involves seeking first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). This teaching is very similar to God’s command to Israel never to put anyone or anything ahead of Him (Exodus 20:3). Colossians 1:18 says that “in all things” Christ is to “have the preeminence”; He is to be first in everything. Even the very first words of Scripture point to God’s superiority, and thus, His secret to a blessed life: “In the beginning, God,” from which we can understand, “First – God!” Throughout His Word, He continually reminds us of this foundational truth.
Those who spend their time and talents using any other priority system will eventually experience a wasted life. Jesus warned people not to do this when He said, “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). So how do we keep from living this wasted life? By reordering our priorities according to God, the Creator of life, as He reveals Himself through His Word.
Remember why God leaves us on earth after He gives us salvation through Christ – for the purpose of conforming us to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). God designed us to become like those we hang around, and He wants us to hang out, or fellowship, with Him. He blesses those who do. We must discipline ourselves to invest daily time with God. Start by reading the Book of John over and over. Marinate in the Book of Psalms. Wear out 1 John 1:9! Becoming Jesus’ devout disciple will result in a blessed purpose-filled life here on earth, and a rewarded life in heaven forever! After our time on earth, will there be anything more important than God taking us in His arms and saying, “Well done, My child”?
Father, help me use my time and talents to represent You instead of my own desires, and to live each day with a focus on eternal, not worldly things. Amen.
Bobby Joiner, Leesburg, GA
