“Whoever goes hunting for what is right and kind finds life itself—glorious life!” Proverbs 21:21 (MSG)
In my family we enjoy the outdoors – hunting, fishing, travel, boating, etc. Why not? God created all this beauty for us to enjoy, so we will take full advantage of it every opportunity we get.
Hunting can be expensive, requires patience, and the thrill of a challenge encompasses it.
When I read Proverbs 21:21 in the ERV (People who try hard to do good and be faithful will find life, goodness, and honor.) I first thought, “Yea, life is hard. When we work hard to do the right thing and be faithful to God, we DO find a glorious life in the end. It may be tough at times, but totally worth it. Such as life.”
Then, my next thought was, “When we pursue Christ, and try to imitate Him, we find Life! Glorious life!”
Much like hunting, pursuing a Christ-like life can be costly, requires patience, and can encompass much challenge.
Following Christ will cost you your life. Your selfish life. “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be My follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow Me.” Matthew 16:24. Hard? Okay…life is hard…suck up that selfishness and deal with it. Be selfless. God did. He gave us His Son so that we may have life! (John 3:16)
Patience. Boy oh boy is that a character trait that can be tiring and trying. But through it all we gain much. One of my favorite verses is Galatians 6:9,“So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” My friend, Jesus is patient with us. “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9. What are you waiting for? Turn and run to Him. He is waiting for you.
The Christ Life will encompass many challenges. “We have troubles all around us, but we are not defeated. We often don’t know what to do, but we don’t give up. 9 We are persecuted, but God does not leave us. We are hurt sometimes, but we are not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. Be strong in the Lord. Lean on Him. He will see you through it all.
Happy hunting.
Please click here to subscribe so you won’t miss a journal entry. THANK YOU!!!
Follow me on Instagram @stephanie_shuff
I pray that you will enjoy soaking up The Son every moment of each day. –Stephanie
