A Risk-taker

We tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ. That’s why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me.

Colossians 1:28-29

CHRISTIANITY WAS NEVER INTENDED TO be just a body of beliefs to which we give our assent. When we look at it that way, it can become a turnoff. It can seem unreal and ineffective. Christianity was always intended to be a call to action. God doesn’t simply reward our knowledge or our good intentions. He rewards what we say and do. He wants us to join Him in bringing the good news of the gospel to a lost world, demonstrating its power by how we live.

Jesus commands us to love God with all of our strength (Mark 12:30). The Greek word for strength in this verse means “the antithesis of apathy.” What comes to mind are taking risks, seizing opportunities, and going all out. Living as Christians involves concentrated and consecrated effort, having our whole being focused on obedience.

Jesus is our ultimate example. He took the risk of coming to earth, to a people whom He created but who did not recognize Him. He seized the opportunity to lay down His life as the perfect sacrifice. He went all the way to the cross. He held nothing back.

Loving God means expending time and energy for Kingdom causes. It means servanthood and sacrifice. It means good old-fashioned hard work, empowered by God’s grace.

BOTTOM LINE

How is God leading you to serve others today? Do it joyfully to His glory.

Moment of Strength: Colossians 3:23-24