And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

— 1 John 2:17

Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.

— Matthew 24:35

Seek the LORD while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.

— Isaiah 55:6

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.

— Jeremiah 29:13

Because of the steadfast love of the LORD we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail.

— Lamentations 3:22

10 Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things you will never stumble,

11 and you will receive a lavish reception into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

— 2Peter 1:10-11

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and salvation from Christ to you.

Without faith in God, people rely only on their own logic, experiences, and faltering explanations to find meaning in this life that is a literal dead end. Supposed freedom, fulfillment, and answers to life’s challenges are limited to the people, places, things, and pleasures offered by this fallen world, which all will come to an end. But the faith in the true God changes everything. When we trust completely in Christ’s finished work, we can stop expecting to please God through behavior modification or management. Our desire and ability to obey and follow God depend on His power, not our own.

We welcome Him to work in and through us, knowing He will never forsake us. Our lives have purpose because we know God loves us with an everlasting love. We seek God’s transforming power in our daily lives, recognizing the emptiness of the world’s pressures and pleasures, which cannot compare with the joy of seeking, knowing, and obeying God. Life on earth is not a meaningless and fruitless journey. Instead, our time on earth allows our first steps toward our joyful eternity in the presence of our Creator. We need not fear the chaotic circumstances that often surround us. We are content in trusting that our faith can grasp what our minds cannot fully understand. Amen!