2 Corinthians 5: 15, 2 Corinthians 2 : 14-15

Johnny Douglas
Johnny Douglas

- Jesus included everyone in His death so that everyone could also be included in His life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own! Check out 2 Corinthians 5: 15

- Jesus didn't die so that you could be comfortable and well-adjusted.

Though we have been rescued from a life of sin, (which leads us to pursue all of the petty things of this world), we as Christians still seek the very same things that unbelievers seek. Why don't we step outside of the expectations the world tells us to have for our lives and launch fully into the grand plan God has designed for us?

Which leaves me with the burning question, how much of my life, after all, is truly the pursuit of those two things; to be comfortable and well-adjusted?

In the next couple of years, I don't know what's on your list of hopes, wants & desires? Where is the dream to win many for Christ or to serve my community? Unfortunately, I haven't allowed the sacrifice of my Saviour to so invade my whole life that I long to follow His example and sacrifice mine. I'm continually bound to the selfish pleasures of this world and, instead of trying to sever all ties and follow Him, I feed those ties by comparing myself to friends and lusting after things other people have that I don't.

Despite my wobbles & failings, God has a plan for me. A plan of great self-sacrifice, a plan of humility & fruitfulness, adventure and the only plan that can bring me true joy. What is on your "I hope..." list? What's really needed there, what needs to get relegated or just struck off!!? Join me today in a commitment to ditch the "wishing & hoping" lists and instead follow God's plan in true obedience, which produces contagious joy.

- Another nugget this time from 2 Corinthians 2 : 14-15 to finish:

In Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, He brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation-His aroma in this life! CR

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.