10 For this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. – 1 Timothy 4:10
What we work hardest on, is what we value most. Our hearts are found in those things we consider passions and thus allot extended periods of time and work. Paul often uses this idea of physical training, yet he also says earlier in 1 Timothy that “. . . 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way.”
So do we believe this?
If we took stock in what we spend our effort in the most, would it be colored with the Gospel?
Our hope is never in vain. I would submit that if it ever feels like it is, then walk away. Each day must carry an enduring hope – a daily reminder of the Gospel in which we are forever bonded to. It is easy to blunt our sword of Truth and to water down the direct message of salvation by the flood of apathy. As instruments of a greater Truth, may we tune our souls to His ways and to His demands.
. . . we have our hope set on the living God . . .
Do we believe He lives even today? In this moment of tragedy and absurdity, do we stubbornly believe His grace prevails? This is our only hope. This is where we are to forever find rest and refuge. He lives so we may live above the heartbreak. He lives so we may die to ourselves.
Today we toil and strive for a better way – the only way that matters. We evaluate our time spent, our energy and capacity, and flood it with the work of Christ. This is what our weary hearts crave and what the world must become increasingly aware of.
Matt simon blog 