Our awesome Father God created everything for good. The gift of life affords us so many possibilities, and each day is filled with moments of opportunity. Part of following Jesus fully is choosing how we use every gift, chance, and convenience this world offers us, as well as how we respond to, interact with, and relate to others.
According to research, the average person makes approximately 35,000 choices each day, with modern technology putting even more possibilities at our fingertips. While making these choices, are we mindful that we are living temples of the Holy Spirit? Our bodies, words, and actions are the temple where God dwells.
In order to follow Christ more fully, we must be blatantly honest with ourselves and ask the following questions:
- Where do I spend time that is not true Jesus time?
- Do I make my choices in word and action as though Jesus were sitting next to me?
- Am I distracted by something that doesn’t help me grow in my relationship with Christ?
- Is a life of simplicity and service part of my mission to follow Jesus?
Ultimately, we need to live every moment as true believers in the risen Savior, Jesus Christ—not as victims of the “trappings of this world.” Daily time with the Lord in prayer will help strengthen us on this path. Ask Jesus to drive out what doesn’t belong in your heart—habits, attitudes, or patterns that crowd out God’s presence, remembering that “Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile” (Mark 7:15). Start every morning with a prayer asking the Lord to design His plan for your day, including your choices for living and loving in Him.
