Regardless

But neither exile nor homecoming is the main thing. Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that’s what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions. Sooner or later we’ll all have to face God, regardless of our conditions. We will appear before Christ and take what’s coming to us as a result of our actions, either good or bad.

2 Corinthians 5:9-10 The Message

One day, we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. We'll be judged for our faithfulness and given or denied rewards determined by how we lived for Christ. Yes, our sins are forgiven, but we will still give an account to Christ for what we've done. 

When we really think about that, will it make a difference in our next choice - good or bad? Do we make excuses - we're tired, we don't feel good, so-and-so made me angry and hurt my feelings? Our Promise for Today tells us two times, regardless of our conditions... Do we want to squander our days on mediocrity?  Do we think that would qualify as cheerfully pleasing God? 

Prayer:

Father,

          Forgive us for all the times we mindlessly make choices in life without consciously - cheerfully - thinking about whether or not our actions would please You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen