2004-05-02 - The Meaning of Life

The Meaning of Life Series, Part 6

6. Conclusion: Let me close with this example. John, I've changed his name, is a true example of what it means to be a husband loving his wife because of a desire to please God. John understands that life doesn't come from having an ideal marriage. Life comes from God. Jane was abused most of her early years. John didn't know this when they married, and it wasn't obvious. But as the days went on, Jane's life began to deteriorate. She fell out of touch with reality. When they were out together, she would get in arguments with people and when they would argue back, she knew that they were going to attack her. Of course this wasn't true, but she had learned that verbal violence was always followed by physical violence. And so she considered John a wimp because he didn't protect her.

   Soon she moved out and lived on her own. She was very suicidal, and tried to kill herself on a number of occasions. She would be voluntarily or involuntarily committed. John often waited for the call telling him she was dead. He continued to support her, to be there for her, even when she rejected him.

   Now don't blame her, for she was in such pain that she believed her life came from ending the pain, and that was why, for her, death was preferable to life.

   Most people would consider this situation intolerable, and John felt that way himself sometimes, but he knew that life came not from circumstantial comfort, but life came from God. John looked to God for strength and comfort. And so, regardless of the circumstances, regardless of how his wife treated him, John continued to agapé her, because that is what the Lord expected of him. And if he had to live the rest of his life this way, with God's help, he could do so.

   As long as we walk in the truth that life comes from God and nowhere else, we will be able to rejoice in the midst of circumstances, and to grow from them. We will have the abundant life that comes from a relationship with the Eternal God, a relationship that nothing can ever take away. We will truly be free to live life for God, no longer having to meet the expectations of others, or even ourselves. We will be truly able to love others, and no longer need to protect ourselves from the pain of failed relationships. We will meet the greatest longings of our heart, relationship and impact, with and through our loving God. Praise the Lord.

   "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).

Comments or Questions?
Geoff

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http://www.cfdevotionals.org