POST #4: STRIVE - The Difference Between "WANT" and "WORK"

Isn’t that what it’s all about?  If you want a thing, you work hard for it, and every measure of hard work mandates sacrifice.  The bodybuilder can’t eat a box of donuts and the salesman can’t sleep in on the weekend.

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So, the Wednesday Word for the Week is STRIVE!

Luke 13:24, “Work hard to enter the narrow door to God’s Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail.” (NLT)

It is an absolute fact that we are saved by grace.  In other words, our salvation isn’t based on our worth, works, or deservedness.  Instead, it’s active in the lives of the believer by no other but the love of God.  This means that I have the hope of heaven in my life, not because of my living; I have it because of His love.   

But here’s an additional and crucial fact:  salvation is His gift, but it comes with a price of sacrifice.  That is, I must give up my own will and sinful desires to take on God's will.  In doing this, I not only forsake my desired action but must also abandon my active desires. 

I (like all) have passions within me that do not agree with the life that God has for me.  He says to forgive when I seek a grudge.  He says try when I want to quit.  He says to believe when I think to doubt.  And He says love when I’m inclined to hate.  Yes, He gave the gift of salvation, but this gift has a cost, and He graciously asks, “Kevin, after all, I’ve sacrificed for you; what are you willing to give up for Me?” 

Isn’t that what it’s all about?  If you want a thing, you work hard for it, and every measure of hard work demands sacrifice.  The bodybuilder can’t eat a box of donuts, and the salesperson can’t sleep on the weekend.  They have goals that require commitment; the difference between those who want it and those who talk about it is their willingness to STRIVE. 

Christ informs me that Heaven is a prepared place for all; however, here’s a brutal reality, all aren’t prepared for it.  After the sacrifice of His life, we MUST accept our inescapable need to make righteous sacrifices for Him.  God’s giving cannot be beaten; however, His commitment must be imitated. 

Know this:  “Because Jesus Saves, we must STRIVE!” 

Your thoughts?  Let me know below.  Peace and love, family.

Imperfectly,
@kevindjonessr.