When my husband and I were first married, it seemed like we were always in transition.  We changed jobs, moved, went to school, had babies and moved a couple more times all within the space of a few years.  Because of this, it seemed we were always waiting to get settled so that we could start our life.  By the time we felt settled a little in our home and we could finally find our groove, big trying times came.  Close loved ones were dealing with cancer and other illnesses, life changing deaths happened.  We were always going through some trying time and working to get past it.  I would always say, “when we get past this, then we can really serve God.” or “When we finish this, then I’ll spend more time having fun with the kids.”  The list could go on.  About the time that our daughter was nine years old, I realized that by the world’s standards, she was half grown.  HALF GROWN.  And here I was, still waiting for our life to start.  And then it hit me…this IS our life, and I’m missing it because I’m always living in some other time.  So let’s look at some tips for living in today from Matthew 6:25-34:

Remember Your Purpose.  Matthew 6:25 says, “For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body as to what you will put on.  Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?”  We are here for more than just food and clothing.  Luke 19:10 tells us that Jesus’ life was about seeking and saving the lost.  Is that our purpose?  Whether we are caring for little ones, working a job, or just chatting with our neighbor, we need to remember our purpose each day.

Remember That God Takes Care of Your Needs.  Matthew 6:26-32 tells us about how God perfectly takes care of the birds and the lilies and the grass.  How much more so is He going to take care of us?  It’s easy to get carried away in the cares and worries of this world and and to let that take us away from our purpose.  1 Peter 5:7 says to, “Cast all your cares of Him because He cares for you.”  We need to let Him handle our cares and worries.  We need to remember that He is great enough to take care of us.

Remember To Do What Is In Front of You To Do-Today.  Matthew 6:33-34 says, But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.  So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own.”  What are some things that we can do today to seek Him first?  Could I start my day off with a few minutes of prayer and scripture reading?  Can I squeeze in a bike ride with my children, while we look at the beauty that God created? Can I steer the conversation with my neighbor to spiritual things?  Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Do you work heartily as for the Lord rather than for men knowing that from the Lord we will receive the reward of the inheritance.  It is the Lord Christ Whom you serve.”  Whatever the task is that is set before us, we need to do it to the best of our ability.

Wherever you are in life, it is time to start living-living for the One who gave that life to you.  If you need help getting started, pick up your bible and read a few chapters in the New Testament, ask God to help you, seek out others who are living for the Lord.  Remember that you have a great purpose and God will take care of your needs. Just do what is front of you to do.  

 

By Heidi Sprouse