Bearing Fruit in the World
Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Matthew 28:19-20
This passage is known as “the Great Commission,” and it’s the divine purpose for every Christian. Whatever we are doing, wherever we go, we are to reflect Christ by our words and actions, being consciously aware of our purpose. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters (Colossians 3:22).
If our hearts and minds are always aware of the divine purpose of pointing souls to Christ, then our lives have meaning until our last breath. If we realize that we exist as ambassadors for Christ, filled with his love to reflect to the world, then it gives us understanding that we are not of this world. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it (John 17:16). If we know in our hearts and minds that this world is just our temporary home and that our permanent home is with the Lord in heaven, it helps us to endure trials and tribulations. We exist as Christ’s ambassadors, proving our love for the Lord by being a witness for Christ and enduring everything we face in this short temporary life.
As we bring the love of Christ to people our lives resembles the life of Jesus, and this changes our hearts. Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). If we claim to know Christ then we should show it by walking as Jesus did. We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands (1 John 2:3). To obey his commands is to walk as Jesus walked. If we want to walk as Jesus walked we will be in prayer seeking his guidance, in the Word to learn his ways, and in fellowship to hear him speak through our fellow brothers and sisters.
Having a divine calling from God to be a light for Christ in this world, knowing that heaven is our home, and being filled with love, peace, and joy from the Spirit gives us the full, rewarding lives that the Lord promises. Our lives are the image of God.
The lives that Satan desires for us are characterized by pride and self-centeredness. This life is the image of Satan and is filled with fear, anger, and unforgiveness, which are toxic to mental and physical health. This life is like driving a car with polluted gas.
Today seek to be an ambassador for Christ by living as Jesus lived. Be mindful of your thoughts, words and actions and try to reflect Jesus. Study the Word and note Jesus’ words and attitude as he brought Truth to the world. We will face the same response from people today.
Let’s Pray: Lord, give me your courage to be Light in this world. Fill my heart with your love so that I may care for all people. Give me the wisdom and patience to point them to Christ and continue to mold me to be Christ-like so that I can always be a better witness for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen