John Maxwell wrote, "If you're not doing something with your life, it doesn't matter how long it is." Indeed, how sad it would be to look back upon one's life and think that it did not matter to anyone. What pleased God was that Solomon asked not for a long life, but for "an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil" (1 Kings 3:9, NKJV; cf. v. 10-12). His request typified the heart of a servant, as he was concerned about doing right toward others.
Therefore, if we want our lives to count for something, then we should spend our lives serving others. The life that counted the most was the life of Christ, for he served everyone, in that he died for everyone so that their sins might be forgiven (1 John 2:2; Mark 9:35). On the day of judgement, the Lord will review the service you did or did not provide to others (Matthew 25:31-46). We must teach and admonish others, yes, but Christians were also created to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). Benjamin Franklin wrote, "A man of words and not of deeds is like a garden full of weeds.”
What can you do to make sure your life is not lived in vain, and that it will count for something after you are gone? Remember two things: live for the glory of God and live to be a blessing to others. Of the first, we are told, Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). God has given all of us a purpose in life; an answer to the question, "Why am I here?" By our actions, we point people to God, not ourselves. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen (1 Peter 4:11). If by your deeds you seek not your own glory, but God's, you will have not lived in vain.
Secondly, we are told, Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). When we live to serve others, their burdens will not be a bother, but a blessing (cf. Acts 20:35). When we read about Dorcas in the book of Acts, does it sound like it was a chore to make all of those garments for her friends? No! The text says, "This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did" (Acts 9:36b). This was who she was! This was what she spent all of her time doing! Do you think her life mattered? It mattered so much that all those who knew her wanted her brought back from the dead! And she was!
The key to a life well-lived is a life well-filled with good works- not just any good works but works that bring glory to God. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58). This is the secret to a life that will count when you are gone.
Brotherly, Jamie
