Because This is Not It!

If this life were all there were to our existence, we would most likely live much differently than perhaps we do now. We would still probably treat those around us kindly; especially those who were kind to us, as such is still the way of the world. ( Matthew 5:46-47) However, if there were nothing to follow the end of this life we would very likely tend to be a bit more self-centered and seek to find the most pleasure out of life we could. But we do know that this life is not it! There is more to come!

While making his defense before Governor Felix at Caesarea, Paul pointed to the basis and motivation for the CONDUCT of his life.
“(14) But this I confess to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, (15) HAVING A HOPE IN GOD, which these men themselves accept, that THERE WILL BE A RESURRECTION OF BOTH THE JUST AND THE UNJUST. (16) SO I ALWAYS TAKE PAINS TO HAVE A CLEAR CONSCIENCE TOWARD BOTH GOD AND MAN.” ( Acts 24:14-16 ESV)

The Greek translated “take pains” (ESV), “strive” (NIV), or “I exercise”
(KJV) is “asko”, from “askeo”, a word which “signifies to form by art, to adorn, to work up raw material with skill; hence, in general, to take pains, endeavour, exercise by training or discipline, with a view to a conscience void of offence.” [from Vine’s Expository Dictionary of N.T. Words]

There was a beauty that adorned the life of Paul as he diligently sought to fulfill the Will of God. His life became a wonderful masterpiece in God’s hands. And Paul had a resolve for maintaining the life He had been called by Christ to live. The fact that life here and now was not all there was to Paul’s existence appears to have powerfully motivated him in all he did. The reality of a resurrection at the end of this life, encouraged Paul with a great hope, but also struck him with a sense of diligence in living with a CLEAR CONSCIENCE before both God and man. As we look at his life it is easy to see that he would not be swayed from this resolve.

Life here and now is not it! We may believe that intellectually, but do we always strive to live in accordance with the reality? May the reality of our resurrection instill within us a hope sufficient to cause us to press on, like Paul (i.e. Acts 20:24; 21:13-14), regardless of what we might face. In Christ we have a sure hope! But let the truth of a coming resurrection also keep us aware of how we are to always CONDUCT our lives now.

Have a great day LIVING CLEARLY CONSCIOUS OF THINGS TO COME!
Carl

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