Friday, February 25, 2011

Focus Life On Jesus

"We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."

-- 1 Thessalonians 1:3

How do people know you are a Christian? Is it because that's the little box you check on forms? Is it because that's how you respond when you're asked? Or is it because that label belonged to your family and you assume it belongs to you as well?

The new Christians in Thessalonica were marked for persecution. Indeed, the Apostle Paul had left them after only a short time, probably because Paul and his companions feared for their lives. These new believers could have hidden or even denied their faith. Instead, they set out to live their faith. Could anyone say the same about you?

Faith produces good works. It's certainly not required for salvation. But the thing is: True faith and love for Jesus Christ create a heart that desires to do good works. That's why Paul was commending the Thessalonians. They were living their faith. And they weren't backing down in the face of persecution. How many of us would have the courage to stand firm if we faced prison, beatings or death for our belief in Jesus?

What have you done for Jesus today? Did you tell someone about Him? Did you anonymously leave a bag of food on the porch of someone in need? Did you visit an elderly neighbor? Did you give someone another chance? Did you show kindness to someone the world has rejected?

We live in a world focused on "me." Choose a different path. Live your life focused on Jesus. You might amaze yourself.