Thursday, August 3, 2017

"Eternal Perspective" August 3, Readings: Job 17-18, Acts 25:13–27, Psalm 89:42–48, Proverbs 19:12–14



Today's Readings - Job 17-18, Acts 25:13–27, Psalm 89:42–48, Proverbs 19:12–14


Devotional 

Consider how things have changed.

There would not have been many back in the First Century who would have chosen Paul's life over that of either Felix or Festus, the Roman officials before whom he appeared in Caesarea. They were men of power and influence - people served them, respected them, feared them. Paul? He was in chains and people were out for his blood. Festus and Felix had money and everything that came with it. Paul had nothing.

Now, nearly 2000 years later, things look a little different, don't they? Most of us would rather have been Paul, the Apostle of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles. Though he suffered greatly he invested his life in things that were eternal and made a tremendous impact in people's lives that continues to today. He gave himself to the gospel, to the message of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. He was a fool for Christ and whatever it cost him during his lifetime it has given him back throughout time.

Of course, there is the obvious issue of heaven and hell - Paul is in glory with Jesus and Festus and Felix would not seem to have that same eternal home. But it goes beyond that. The effects of Paul's life and ministry continue today in the lives of each of us who follow Jesus. He ministered to people who ministered to people who ministered to people who ministered to people who ministered to you and me. We are the spiritual grandchildren of Paul. His life counted.

The trial of Paul before Festus and Felix was so much more than an examination of the facts of the accusations against Paul. This trial is an archetype of the great battle each of us goes through - the decision whether to seek the treasures of heaven or earth. Will we invest ourselves in the things of this world to accumulate possessions, build bank accounts, and seek to rise to the top in the eyes of the world? Or, will invest our lives in the kingdom of God, dying to self so that we can live to Christ and for eternal glory. Eternal things or temporal? Earthly gain or kingdom glory?

Paul stood trial before these men, but in reality he stood before God and he made a wise choice. He chose what was eternal over what was temporal. We never lose when we do that.

Paul passed his trial. He proclaimed Christ.

Today. Tomorrow. Every day as you walk through life...will you pass the trial? Will your life count for now and forever? 
Father, may my life be a life that matters, a life that counts for now and for generations to come, because I invest myself in your word, your people, and your work. 
Think and Pray

Is your life eternal?


Is it invested in that which will impact generations for Christ?

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