COLOSSIANS 1:16

For in him [Jesus Christ] all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

TO PONDER

Scripture is also full of passages like this. Verses that tell us we were created by God and for God, that we belong to him, that we are his people, his children, and he is our God.

I know it seems obvious, but I also know that I need reminding of this on almost a daily basis, so the constant reminders, while sometimes irritating, are also kind of necessary.

Have a look at the world today, and you will likely see people busy living life as if their life is theirs to do with as they wish. That, after all is what our Western, hyper-individual, culture and world view seems to be promoting. Phrases like, "You do you" or "Live your best life" reinforce the idea that the purpose of life is for you to do what you want, for you to be happy all the time.

Many theologians and philosophers have speculated that service and worship is a natural human state, that we are naturally wired to worship and serve something. The only choice we actually have then is what we choose to worship and serve. Many people seem to be choosing to worship at the alter of self and it's not having a great result. I remember even within my own fairly short lifetime when people who were self absorbed or overly self focussed were not looked on with much favour or good will in their communities. These days they are the kings and queens of social media empires and all the world adores them.

Well, while that might have changed, the ultimate reality has not, we still have been made by God and for God. If you have to worship something, why not the God of all creation who created you for relationship with himself.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, thank you that all things in heaven and on earth are ultimately yours to command and control. Please help me to trust you more deeply and to walk in your ways. Amen

Today's devotion written by Mathew von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle