John 12:25-26
[Jesus said] Anyone who loves his life destroys it. And the one who hates his life in this world will hold on to it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, let him follow me. And where I am, there my servant will be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.
Dear Lord Jesus,
We pray that through faith, you will guide us to avoid loving this world. This temptation is easy to succumb to because the world’s ways can seem enticing, such as working hard and accumulating wealth for ourselves, which appears to be a simpler path than relying on you for our daily sustenance.
While the world seems to endorse and celebrate those who oppose you, we must remember that this life is temporary, and everything can vanish in an instant. Please keep us from becoming like those captivated by this life; while they focus on you, it is only in resolving their immediate problems and situations to create a more comfortable life here on earth.
Please guide us to focus on what matters most: our life with you in heaven. Let us turn our hearts away from this world and focus on knowing, trusting, and believing in you. Help us to be secure in the forgiveness you won for us on the cross, for as you rose from the dead; we know our sins have been completely forgiven. Please send your Holy Spirit to strengthen our faith in you so we may truly understand your love and mercy. By faith, we pray that we will hate this life and hold on to eternal life to be with you forever.
May we love and serve you in gratitude for the love you have shown us. Through love, let us share the good news of our salvation with those around us who are captivated by this world. Let us offer them the even greater life that awaits them in heaven, which you purchased with your blood. Send your Holy Spirit to move in their hearts so that their faith may begin and they can become pillars of faith for others. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
We may wonder about our lives and ask, “What is the purpose of all we go through?” Our lives and purpose extend beyond this existence; the answer lies in our eternal life in heaven. Heaven is yours through faith alone in Jesus.