It’s a common question when people first meet.
We often describe ourselves by our occupation or our hobbies, or sometimes by our family.
If someone has a job they are less than happy in, they may skip over it to describe their interest in motor sports.
Where we use our time and attention is an excellent indication of what we value.
Our values and beliefs are what make up our world view, which includes how we see ourselves.
For the follower of Christ Jesus, what we do should be a reflection of who we are in Him.
How we view ourselves, others, and life should all be founded upon the Word of God.
For Jesus spoke a great deal about what those who follow Him should value.
John 13:34 NKJV — “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
John 13:35 NKJV — “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Matthew 5:44 NKJV — “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,
The New Testament is full of instruction for the follower.
Ephesians 4:1-3NKJV — I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love,
endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Colossians 3:12-14NKJV — Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering;
bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.
Understanding that what we do and where we spend our time is often a reflection of what we value.
How will you choose to answer the next time someone asks you:
“What do you do?”
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your Word. Thank You for bringing this to my attention, that I might use future opportunities to testify of You and how You have done so much for me and my family. Lord, I want all that I do and say to reflect Your love for others. Lord, please continue to teach me how to walk in today with love and compassion, discerning the season, and redeeming the time. Lord, I don’t want to waste Your gifts. Please help me to value what You do. Please teach me how to use my time wisely, guarding myself from the “busyness” which can eat away from the things I truly value. Lord, thank You for Your love. Thank You for salvation. I want my life to say, “I’m a follower of Jesus.” I love You, Lord. Thank You for first loving me. Amen.
patientlyhopeful 