All for the Glory of God

John 5:19 (New International Version)
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society
19Jesus gave them this answer: "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.

This morning I'm reflecting on how wonderful it is to be able to rely on God's guidance for our lives. The text, John 5:19, is our pattern; Jesus relied on God's leading while he was on earth.

I've learned that when I follow the principle of doing whatever he says, his plan for my life evolves in a way that has the touch of the Holy, unfolding in a mysterious and wonderful way.

Isaiah 52:12b says, "For the Lord will go before you, the God of Israel will be your rearguard."

Part of my morning reading was Matthew 25 in which is the parable of the servants who were loaned money and challenged to invest it well, meaning that we have a responsibility to live fruitful lives for God. I heard his voice in the story of the sheep and the goats, representing those who belonged to God and those who didn't -- the dividing line being whether people were doing the work of the Lord or not -- feeding the hungry and thirsty, inviting in the stranger, clothing those in need and visiting the sick and the prisoner. It all seemed to emphasize that we are here for a purpose beyond ourselves. What is most important is finding God's purpose and doing it, moment by moment and for as long as God gives us breath!

Lord, my life on a large and small scale is a series of choices between self and others. You laid down your life for us, and we are to do that for each other. I want to stay so close to you that I hear even the whisper of your voice and follow it.

1 Corinthians 10:31 (New International Version)
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society
31So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

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