[03/27/2023 “teEn-MAIL”]
We live in a day and age when too many want to play the blame game or play the “victim” card rather than accepting responsibility for the consequences of their actions. Certainly, we are surrounded by varying influences, but we still do the choosing. As has been said, “While we are free to choose our actions, we are not free to choose the consequences of our actions.” (Stephen R. Covey)
In Psalm 119 the writer acknowledged. . .
“(109) I hold my life in my hand continually, but I do not forget your law.” (Psalm 119:109 ESV)
In a real sense, we hold our life in our hands. Bottom line, we choose how we act and react as well as what we do and what we say. In the psalmist’s acknowledgment of his life being always in his hands, the choice he made was to never forget God’s law. In doing so, he placed his life in the hands of God’s blessed instruction and will. Are we doing the same? Options may be present (i.e. Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 24:14-15; Jeremiah 6:16; etc.), but are we choosing that which truly relates to life as God would have it?
In his letter to the church at Galatia, Paul exhorted. . .
“(7) Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. (8) For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.” (Galatians 6:7-8 ESV)
As it is true in the plant kingdom, it is true in life. Something of consequence to consider as we choose how we live. Are we continually keeping the Scriptures and our relationship to the Lord in mind?
Earlier in that same letter Paul noted his life connection with Christ in stating. . .
“(20) I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20 ESV)
Though Paul noted the life he lived in the flesh, he acknowledged it as remaining under the dominant influence of Christ. Christ, in essence, had become his life! May we also choose to live so united with Christ that our choices continue to both reflect His Will and glorify Him! Such will be found to be of blessed consequence!
Have a great day HANDING OUR LIFE OVER TO THE LORD!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
