LOVE THAT LASTS
For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.
Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV)
The other day, I was so excited because I got a new phone, but then I began to think about how many new phones I’ve had in my life. I started to think about the fragility of our lives. Simply put, things and relationships don’t always last. Think about the things you once found dear that are tucked away in some closet. I once heard treasures defined as junk waiting to happen. For most of us, some relationships or friendships have faded through the years. But there is something that lasts, and that’s anything done in the name of Jesus.
Jesus tells His disciples that anything they do in His name will outlast them. I love the verse above that He holds all things together. This text gives us two encouragements. First, it shows us we don’t have to fear the future. People who are afraid can't truly love others. We use the phrase fight or flight to describe how we usually respond when we’re afraid. The problem is neither one truly embodies the love of Jesus. Only people who have peace can genuinely love those around them and serve those in need. If we live in constant fear, we will resort to fighting culture or just fleeing from culture. Jesus didn’t do either of those things He loved and served. The only way to do this is to understand that God is in control. Nothing surprises Him; rest in the promise that He holds all things together.
Second, this verse shows us that Jesus’ Kingdom is unshakable. Think about how many businesses have come and gone. Things that I thought would be around, like Blockbuster, future generations won’t even know what it was. Empires like the Roman Empire have crumbled over time, but Jesus’ Kingdom is unshakeable. He will never fall off His throne. He will never get knocked off His throne. This gives you great confidence that everything you do for Jesus, and in His name, is a great investment. The only secure thing in a constantly shaking world is Jesus. Let that create a boldness to live for Him today. His love and His Kingdom last!
APPLICATION:
Don’t fight or flee from culture today. Love those around you.
PRAYER:
Ask the Spirit to help you be bold and truthful but ALWAYS loving. We can use truth as a sword to fight others or a scalpel to bring healing. Ask the Spirit to help you love like He does!
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?