It is the eve of our annual Spur On 5K Trail Drive Run for Mercy Heart (a ministry with at-risk families and children of inmates). I am thinking about this event and running in the race myself. There will be many running this race with the goal of “being the best in the race”, being first, running the fastest time. That is an admirable goal for such an event, but what about in life.Dewitt Jones, a photographer friend, has challenged me and many others to “not just be the best IN the world, but to be the best FOR the world.” Let that soak in for a minute. Just being the best IN the world will not satisfy nearly as much as being the best FOR the world. I ask myself, “How can I be the best FOR the world?”
In the Scriptures it says, “See that no one return evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both FOR yourselves and FOR others.” (Emphasis added) – 1 Thessalonians 5:15. Then the verses that follow actually tell us how we can be the best FOR the world.
This is how to be the best FOR the world (1TH 5:16-24):
Rejoice always (Dewitt would say, “Celebrate what is right with the world.”)
Pray without ceasing (At all times and any time commune with the Heavenly Father)
In everything give thanks; this is God’s will in Christ Jesus for you (Even in the tough stuff of life there are things for which to be thankful)
Do not quench the Spirit (Do not stifle the work of God on this planet and in the hearts of men)
Do not despise prophecies (When you hear a word from God, pay attention)
Test all things; hold fast what is good (Look for the truth and relentlessly follow after it)
Abstain from every form of evil (Keep your mind stayed on the Heavenly Father; Treat others like you would like to be treated)
This passage concludes, “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.”
God Himself, in Christ Jesus, can and will make you the best FOR the world. Let Him lead and guide your life.
Get Spurred On!
