You're Not Living Until You're Doing THIS...

Psalm 34:12
Which of you desires life, and covets many days to enjoy good?

The LORD Jesus said in the book of John that He came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. Humanity was created in the image of God. ELOHIM breathed in the nostrils of humanity which caused us to become living souls in Adam. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 118:17, “I will not die, but live, And tell of the works of the LORD.” It's like Psalm 34:12 is the question and Psalm 118:17 is the answer to how one knows they are truly living. As I reflect upon these verses, I resoundingly say that I do desire to live and I desire to live the abundant life that my Savior offers to me through His birth, blood, death, burial and resurrection with all power.

I am increasingly becoming clear on what life exactly is. 

I know that life is found in the LORD Jesus Christ and His kingdom. I know that life is found in meaningful moments with other people (i.e., strangers, family, friends, etc.) I know that life is precious and is best experienced in alignment and purpose. I know that life involves a myriad of experiences and it is meant to shape a person’s heart and provide them with opportunities to revel in the goodness of God. I know that life includes being respectful of all creation and the ecosystem. Life is what occurs in and out of the church. Life is what occurs in public spaces and in private spaces. Life is now and it is eternal, however, it is best to live one’s life with eternity in mind. This last principle is something that has been consistently refined in the last 10 years. When I was younger living with eternity in mind was mostly stained with fear and an escapism mindset that looked for the return of the LORD Jesus Christ. I now understand that I can live with eternity in mind and live a life fully committed to living out my purpose so that I am the change I desire to see in the earth. This involved me dying to selfish desires. In some ways, I am still dying to selfish desires. And I am grateful for the death process.

I also do desire to have many days to enjoy God’s goodness along with the finer things in life. I never want the finer things in life to weigh me down or taint my spirit. I do believe that one can give generously, disciple the poor and the rich, live holy for God, and still enjoy finer things in the earth. The things just must be in their rightful place. Additionally, the LORD must always remain on the throne of the heart of one who believes in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I believe that desiring life and many days to enjoy good is a significant sign of one who is aligned to the Kingdom of God. I believe that the perfecting grace of God helps all of humanity to find value in life and to find good in life. Again, this is a significant reason why the LORD Jesus Christ came on the earth to save humanity.

Prayer:
LORD Almighty, I acknowledge You in the powerful Name of Jesus Christ. You give life and sustain humanity. The whole world is in Your hand. How great You are, my LORD and King. You are light and goodness personified. You dispel the darkness in the world. I ask that I and my brothers and sisters in Christ would fully embrace Your goodness and light and love. May we be set on fire for You so that the world will not just watch us burn, but the world will also catch on fire. Let revival break out in every denomination and stream that belongs to Jesus. Amen. 

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​written by Myrina K. Robinson
Duke Divinity School MDiv 2022
Guest Blogger for BWET Blog ​