10/09/2024
Each of us must live our individual lives in the context of our surroundings and culture. I do believe that God determined the times in which we live as well as our geographical location (Acts 17:26). I do not know, nor have I ever met, anyone who has a “perfect” life free of occasional challenges and difficulties. It is not so much a matter what we are called upon to face but how we choose to face it. I love the 11th chapter of Hebrews which gives us account of what is sometimes called the “Hall of Fame” of faith. Each of those individual were ordinary men and women who live extraordinary lives through faith and obedience to God. Each faced their own individual circumstances by simply taking God at His Word and walking it out in their lives, sometime imperfectly, in relationship to Him. Our lives will not encounter the exact tests, problems, joys, or victories as theirs but we can learn from and follow their faith. Hebrews 13:7-8 Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (NIV). It is good to follow the faith of those whose way of life leads to Jesus Christ, the matchless and unchanging Lord of Glory. Your life matters to those you touch every day. You must choose for that impact to point others to Christ.