JUNE 1, 2018

“Find a purpose to serve, not a lifestyle to live.” 
― Criss Jami

2 CHRONICLES 4-6

36“When they sin against you—for there is no one who does not sin—and you become angry with them and give them over to the enemy, who takes them captive to a land far away or near; 37and if they have a change of heart in the land where they are held captive, and repent and plead with you in the land of their captivity and say, ‘We have sinned, we have done wrong and acted wickedly’; 38and if they turn back to you with all their heart and soul in the land of their captivity where they were taken, and pray toward the land you gave their ancestors, toward the city you have chosen and toward the temple I have built for your Name; 39then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear their prayer and their pleas, and uphold their cause. And forgive your people, who have sinned against you.(6:36-39)

JOHN 12:20-50

42Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not openly acknowledge their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; 43for they loved human praise more than praise from God.

JOURNAL 

My best self is one that understands how precious life is...even this very moment. Because of how precious and sacred this moment is...my best self is one that surrenders to God and gives completely to serve him. My greatest joy in this life is serving God and giving my very best in that service. 

My best self does not shrink back or cruise or let things fall through the cracks. I only get so many moments on this earth...so when I lapse and let them pass as if I can afford to lose them, I sin. I take God for granted, I essentially spit on all Jesus did on the cross. Even worse, I turn a blind eye as if it didn't matter and I instead look to those things that easily please...comforts, applause...all the trappings of ease and comfort. 

This is the downfall of man and as a man I find that it's my kryptonite, it seeks to destroy me with its lure of self-righteousness. Father forgive me for taking you and all you have given for granted, guide me to surrender to you each moment in working my heart out in service and love to you. 

22Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

COLOSSIANS 3:22-24