Wednesday’s Word
by Dorette Saunders
“We have everything we need to live a life that pleases God. It was all given to us by God's own power, when we learned he had invited us to share in his wonderful goodness” (2 Peter 1:3, CEV).
That verse, written by Jesus’ disciple, Peter, is one of the most precious gems of God’s word. No matter which end of the spectrum we fall, we are assured that there is hope because we have everything we need…not to crawl through life…but to live victoriously.
Ever been in a slump, and wondering how to get out? Focus on the words of the verse. “We have everything we need….”
Everything.
Perhaps, it’s not everything you and I want. Yet, when the storms of life show up, you don’t need extra baggage on your boat. You will toss that overboard, and keep what you absolutely need to bring you safely to shore.
And so it is with our lives. The Bible warns about living a life that holds no future, or no promise of security. It says,
You can't depend on anyone,
not even a great leader.
…
The Lord God of Jacob blesses
everyone who trusts him
and depends on him.
(Psalm 146:3,5, CEV)
Of course, living a life that pleases God is not an easy task, but
be assured that we truly have everything we need. It was given to us by God’s great power.
That is amazing!
When the apostle Paul prayed to be relieved of a physical ailment, Jesus tells him:
”My gift of undeserved grace is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak” (2 Corinthians 12:9, CEV).
Notwithstanding the ailment, Paul, the apostle, went on to author almost half of the New Testament!
What does a life that pleases God look like? It’s one that carries the aroma of Christ. One that trusts and serves God even when the things hoped for are not yet manifested. It is one that exemplifies God’s love and care for God’s people. It is one that is dependent on the Holy Spirit to lead and guide even in the most mundane or difficult circumstance.
Our God is a gracious host who invites us “to share in his wonderful goodness.” And, the Bible shows us how to do so.
“Do as God does. After all, you are his dear children. Let love be your guide….” (Ephesians 5:1-2, CEV).
Love is the bedrock of our relationship with God. Not that we love God, but that God loves us madly enough to send his Son, Jesus, to die for our sins.
God’s love for us makes us love God, and our neighbor as well. It makes us give the other person the advantage, it makes us willing to serve and not wait for others to serve us.
When we live a life that pleases God, we discover that the things we fear gradually dissipate because we are assured that God, in his love and compassion, has provided everything we need to live a victorious life.
PRAYER: Lord, remind me that everything I need is found in you. Amen.
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