Living on the edge

Good morning everyone,

Our theme for this month: “Living with joy”

Our Bible verse for today: “Therefore, welcome him in the Lord with great joy and hold people like him in honor, because he came close to death for the work of Christ …” Philippians 2:29-30 (CSB)

Our thought for today: “Living on the edge”

I once read a quote I like very much and which I have held onto. It was an editorial note in the “Every Man’s Bible” and it was about the man Paul was referring to in Philippians 2:29-30 – Epaphroditus. The editors said that one of the lessons we can learn from his example is to be willing to venture out of our comfort zones and even take some risks for the cause of Christ. For example, Epaphroditus was on the mission field with Paul (a courageous act in itself). Then he got seriously sick and almost died. But despite that, as soon as he was well again, he was ready for his next big adventure. In this case it was to travel to Philippi as Paul’s representative.

The quote was: “If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much space.” The editor’s point was that most of us are obsessed with our comfort and safety – to the point that we go to great lengths to avoid anything that takes us out of our comfort zones or which could be the least bit risky. Well, if you’re not living on the edge for Christ; if you’re not venturing out of your comfort zone and taking a few risks to be a blessing and encouragement to others; then in the opinion of the editors of the “Every Man Bible,” you’re taking up too much space. Get out there on the edge a little bit.

In these verses Paul said that people like Epaphroditus are deserving of honor and recognition. The world is quick to honor people who are beautiful, rich, powerful, and talented, but what kind of people should the church be quick to honor? It should be the people who go over and above for the cause of Christ. They’re the ones who are deserving of our recognition and honor.

Such people are also the ones who are making a difference with their lives. That doesn’t necessarily mean they’re going to far-away places and doing dangerous things. But it does mean they are actively and intentionally on-mission with Jesus in the world. Paraphrasing the great church leader John Wesley, it means that the person is committed to doing all the good they can, for all the people they can, in all the ways they can, for as long as they can. This is a person who lives life large. This is a person who is committed to being a force for good for the cause of Christ. This is a person whose life makes a difference.

We get a sense of fulfillment, satisfaction, and joy when we know we are making a difference for the cause of Christ. So, don’t be timid. Be willing to live on the edge for Jesus.

God bless,
Pastor Jim

If you like what you’re reading in these daily devotionals, and if you would like more content from Oak Hill Baptist Church, join us on Sundays at 10:00 – in-person if you are nearby or, if you are geographically distant or if you just can’t make it, online at www.YouTube.com/@oakhillbaptistcrossville

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