May 18, 2009

Quality Of Life

Written by Boyd Bailey

Quality Of Life… “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 NKJV

What is quality of life for the Christian? How does Christ define quality living? He gives abundant life, but what does this look like for those who love the Lord? Abundant life begins by receiving the gift of God in the life of Jesus Christ. “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son” (1 John 5:11). Quality of life begins with eternal life as the end goal. God gives us eternal life to be lived more abundantly on earth.

Quality of life means we live life motivated by what outcomes will live on into eternity. Perhaps I get less and give more. By adjusting down my standard of living, I am able to give more toward what matters to Jesus. The Lord modeled well for us a life of quality. One example was His unselfish service, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:4-5). Service to others brings quality of life to all parties.

Quality of life may not lead to ease and comfort, as our culture likes to advertise. Paul described his life of obedience to the Lord as a dangerous way, “I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers” (2 Corinthians 11:26). You face danger by faith, but knowing you live for Christ sake you persevere and trust Him.

“How is my quality of life? Is it abundant in its obedience to Christ? Is He my life to the point His priorities are my priorities? Do I let go of earthly indulgences so others can gain eternal rewards?” “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:1-3). Quality of life is experienced by Christ’s life at work in and through me.

Related Readings: Amos 6:1-7; Isaiah 54:2; 2Peter 1:3; Revelation 2:7-10

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