And whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Into the Text
Paul has explained that the essence of the Christian life is not keeping external rules or having ecstatic spiritual experiences. It’s much deeper than that. It’s about a new birth, a new identity, and about Jesus Christ living inside of us, changing us into His likeness. We are not called to patch up our old rags of sin but to throw them out. We are to put on the new clothing of love. Our new birth will inevitably impact every aspect of our lives, especially our closest relationships and workplace.
We who believe in Jesus belong to God, not to ourselves. We belong to heaven, not to this world. We have been redeemed by Jesus to live in, through, and for Him. Everything we do, from the moment we wake up until we fall asleep at night, is to be done before the face of God, relying on His grace, guided by His will, and aiming to glorify Him (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Each day, Jesus wants us to bring every situation to Him. When you start your day, make yourself totally available to Him. Be willing to follow His leading and ready to obey whatever He asks of you, no matter how hard it seems. Trust Him to give you the strength you need. And thank Him in advance for what He will do through you. Thank Him that He will help you to love your family, work hard, and speak for His glory. Giving thanks like this is the evidence of true faith.
This week, as we think about living the Christian life in the context of family, work, and our witness to non-believers, may everything we do be an expression of the Son of God living in us (Philippians 1:21).
Prayer
Lord Jesus, my whole life belongs to you. Help me to glorify you in everything I say and do. Amen.