“I affirm, brethren, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. If from human motives I fought with wild beasts at Ephesus, what does it profit me? If the dead are not raised, let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die”(1 Corinthians 15:31-32).
If all we seek are the pleasures of this world and if this life is all we have, then live with abandon. But the hope of the resurrection sets us on a different course. We did not create ourselves and we do not live for ourselves. So then, do not be carried away by the lusts of this life, but seek the new life which has been given through Christ our Savior. Know that in Him is true and everlasting life.
Lord, that which is temporary, in this age, and available is so tempting. Why should I forgo what is before me? Yet, I know that these temporary things are distractions, for they never satisfy. Lead me, O Lord, in the way of what feeds my soul. Lead me in the way of truth that I would see that this life is preparation for what is to come. Guide me in the goodness of Your eternal truth.
Lord Jesus, You have come to lead the way into all goodness through Your mercy. Help me, I pray, to see through the nonsense of this age and know that in Your goodness I may overcome those things which distract me and keep me from the prize of salvation which is in You alone. Not for glory, but by Your truth lead me wherever I may go, knowing that You alone are the author and finisher of my faith. Amen.