Romans 14:5-9
One person values one day above another. Another person values every day the same. Let each person be fully convinced in his own mind. The person who honors a certain day does this for the Lord, and the person who eats does this for the Lord, because he gives thanks to God. And the person who does not eat does this for the Lord and gives thanks to God. In fact, not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself. Indeed, if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. For this reason he died, rose, and lived, to be Lord of both the dead and the living.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Too often, we view our lives as our own, believing that everything we do is merely to fend for ourselves. The world may think this is all there is, genuinely hoping there will be no accountability for their actions at the end of this life. However, how meaningless it is to live when everything we do is solely for ourselves; all the goodness in our lives loses its significance. What is the value of love, joy, or happiness if they exist only for our own gratification? Yet, this is what our sinful nature encourages us to pursue—satisfying ourselves!
The truth about this life is that much more awaits us; it is not found in self-indulgence but is given to us through faith in Jesus. Through faith, all who believe become Your adopted children and have a heavenly home awaiting them when this life comes to an end. Jesus died and rose again so that we may have eternal life, and this is a gift arising from Your love for us. Therefore, we no longer live in this world for ourselves; instead, we live in anticipation of one day being with You. Paul wrote that whether we eat or fast, we do it out of thanksgiving for the love You have for us. If we live or die, we do both for You. We often struggle when someone’s life ends prematurely, but for believers, we rejoice knowing they are no longer walking in this valley of the shadow of death.
Let us also share this good news with those who do not know You. May they live and die in You and the promise of heaven that awaits them. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Death is either a tragic end for someone who rejects God, or, for the believer, it is a triumphant walk through Heaven’s gate. Are you avoiding that day or waiting with great anticipation? Heaven is the blessed beginning for all who believe and trust in Jesus.