Crown of rejoicing
After all, what gives us hope and joy, and what is our crown of rejoicing as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is you! Yes, you are our glory and joy. 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20
What is our crown of rejoicing? What do we rejoice or enjoy most in this life? Some would say family, some may say friends. Some may even say their career or vocation brings them the most fulfillment. What ever it is in this life, we all know that it is temporary. This life is very short and even if we are here for 100 years, it goes by so very quickly. If you think about it and consider, do you even know anyone that is over 100 years old, today? Probably not because it is no secret that our life here in this world will end one day. From the beginning of time, all people have had their brief existence and then pass on. It is never going to change in earth’s present condition.
Having said all that, now let me share some good news. There is something you can take with you when you go. Something you can carry over into the next world/eternity. There is an investment you can make in this lifetime that will stay with you forever! That one thing that can pass from this life to the next with you is the lives of others. Those you witness to and those you lead into the kingdom of God’s love.
Paul talks about this in today’s passage. He says that his glory and joy are in the people that he encourages and leads to eternal life through Jesus. It was so obvious in his life. His time here was a continuous investment into eternity. He didn’t get distracted by any of the world’s stuff. Not family, job or material things. His focus was do all he can for Jesus while he was here. Even when he was in prison, he continuously sent his thoughts of encouragement and prayers to the churches he had established through telling others his salvation testimony.
We have the same priority today. Tell our salvation testimony to those around us. Tell others what a difference walking with Jesus makes in your day to day life. Talk about the relationship you have with him and encourage those around you that they can know Him too.
Today I want to encourage you to think about how you can invest in your eternity. Start by setting aside quiet time with God each day to receive direction and power to accomplish His plan. Grow your desire to be close to your Father through His spirit and ask Him to teach you more about investing into the kingdom of heaven. Start praying and believing for lost friends and loved ones to come to know Jesus and take every opportunity to show the love of God and tell of His goodness to you every day!
Today’s scripture reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
The Daily Dose 