With all the chaos, uncertainty and negativity portrayed in the media, it is difficult to not get swept up in it. We may find ourselves overwhelmed, fearful or anxious when we focus on the circumstances around us. The alternative is to fix our eyes on God and lay all our concerns before Him, focusing on who He is rather than all the negativity.
To become a beautiful butterfly, an ugly caterpillar endures various changes to its body. Despite the discomfort and struggle, the end result is worth the difficulty. The same is true for Christians. At times, we encounter various trials which may involve discomfort, struggles and even suffering, but the potential outcome of growing in the likeness of Jesus Christ offsets any difficulty we may face.
Butterflies. What delicate creatures of beauty that reflect God’s creative brilliance. But they don’t begin as graceful and beautiful creatures. Instead, butterflies start life as ugly caterpillars. To become beautiful butterflies, caterpillars undergo a transformation process, where their bodies are transformed into beauty to reflect God's glory.
Have you ever watched someone build a sand castle? A person may spend hours perfecting their design, but if they neglect to build a safe distance from the water’s edge, the castle will be demolished by the ocean’s rising tide. Without a firm foundation, we may collapse just like a sand castle when the waters rise. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
On a clear evening look up at the sky and notice the myriads of stars shining brightly. They illuminate the dark sky. Believer in Christ, did you know you are like a star shining brightly in the darkness? Radiating the light of Christ along with billions of other believers all over the world.
Scripture provides an illustration of Jesus as the vine and believers as the branches in John 15:1-6. When we abide in Jesus, we will bear much fruit. The opposite is also true. Apart from Jesus, we are unable to bear fruit. When we are cut off from the vine, we start to wither, becoming useless and ineffective.
God has provided everything we need to live a godly life. He has given us His Word, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit who lives in us. Are we utilizing these resources to truly live for Him? Let’s turn to 2 Peter 1:3-8 (CSB) for keys to living a godly life.