Life is a precious gift from God.  The tragedy is that few recognize the value and purpose of their lives, and, as a consequence, find their lives inadequate and unfulfilling.  As we begin this new year it would be well for us to seriously assess our lives.  How should we begin? What better place could we begin than to recognize the fact that the God who has created us and given us this life has provided us with His word, the Bible, designed by God to direct us in attaining the fulfillment of life which we crave.  It is that Holy Spirit inspired word that is “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,” that we might be “thoroughly furnished unto all good works” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ).  This status of life is not to be found in comfortable living conditions, or in material wealth.  The Bible offers a more satisfactory source.

It is impossible to single out one single scripture that would provide this instruction.  However, the admonition of Philippians 4:-9 would be a choice selection.  Pick up your Bible and read the characteristics that will help make your life an adequate, fulfilling life.

We might summarize by saying that in Christ is to be found adequate love, joy, gentleness, security, inspiration and peace.

Many have mastered the art of existing, but few the art of truly living.  Jesus said of His purpose in coming into this world, “I am come that they might have life, and that they night have it more abundantly” (John 10:10 ).  The art of living may be the most seldom learned of all the arts.  It doesn’t come naturally.  It begins when one is “born again…of water and the Spirit” (John 3:3,5).   We would challenge you this new year to make a fulfilling life a primary goal.

 

Ron Bartanen lives in Sullivan, IL and preaches for the  Arthur Church of Christ.