As we bring this 8-week study to a close, I would like you to consider the counteractivity of proclaiming “it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20) while elbowing your way to the forefront, effectively pushing Christ out of the way, to receive the glory and accolades for what you have done with the blessings from the Lord.
We have come to understand that the life of a
Christian is one of sacrifice. We sacrifice our old ways (sinful habits, Romans 6:1-14, Ephesians 4:17-24, Psalm 1:1-3), and
as we follow Jesus’ example and walk in His steps (1 Peter 2:21, 1 John 2:16), we make the necessary changes and
sacrifices to come into line with God’s Word; we become “living sacrifices” (Romans 12:1-2). Jesus said that to
follow Him we must first “deny self” (learn selflessness, no longer focused on earthly things, Colossians
3:1-17), then we “take up [our] cross” (never to return to our former life), and
follow Him (Matthew 16:24-26).
When we seek after glory and praise from man
for validation we miss out. We miss out on the quiet, calm assurance of knowing
that God is pleased with our efforts; pleased with how we have used the things
He has blessed us with. We miss out on the increase of strength and motivation
that comes from God as we labour in
doing good to all (2 Corinthians 9:8,
Galatians 6:9-10), and we miss out on the development of the confidence-building
trust in His promises (Hebrews 11:6).
When we truly let Christ live in us, we will humble
ourselves under the mighty hand of God, just as Jesus did (Philippians 2:5-8), wholly trusting that He will exalt us in due
time (1 Peter 5:5-6).
“For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God…. The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs – heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.” (Romans 8:13-14, 16-17 NKJV)
If you wear the name of Christ and truly let
Him live in you, sacrifice your desire for man’s temporary praise and momentary
applause. Seek after God’s praise, desire His true and lasting exaltation. Give
Him the glory for your life, your abilities, and your blessings (both physical and spiritual). Use all
that He has granted you to be a benefit to others and direct all the glory to Him
for His generous goodness toward all mankind (Matthew 5:16, Psalm 16:2). Live your life to His standard, not mans. The hope of receiving praise from God – “well
done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew
25:21) – is worth every effort and every sacrifice!
You can do it! So can I!!
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