I don't know how long I'll live. Of course, I could live to a ripe old age, God willing. In that case, I hope to become a more devoted and loving follower of Jesus Christ as the years go by until my dying breath. In this case, my hope is that I can live the way the Apostle Paul stated:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)On the other hand, I know the Lord could take me at anytime--either through death or rapture. Therefore, I must not only be reconciled to God and be at peace with Him through faith in Jesus Christ, but I must strive to live in fellowship with Him through loving obedience. If I'm going to hear those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant", I will need to live a life "worthy of the calling" and keep "in step with the Spirit". Integrity and a clear conscience must mark each of my days.
I know that one day I'll stand before the Lord at the judgment seat of Christ, and my works along with the works of all the saints will be judged, not for the purpose of determining salvation since that's already been settled, but for the purpose of rewards or losses in God's kingdom. Yes, according to Scripture, the Lord will give His children rewards according to their faithfulness to Him during their life here on earth.
By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames. (1 Corinthians 3:10-15)So, what compels me? The love of Jesus Christ! Love can be the only good and true motivation.
To keep my mind on the prize, I decided to personally adopt a life theme that will help keep my life on track and focused. I would like to "make Jesus more famous and more followed" to the best of my ability. If I can strive to do that, my life which the Bible says is like a vapor, will not be lived in vain.
How about you?
