The Bible gives us numerous motivating reasons for living for Jesus and being submissive to the will of God. (1) It is our duty. “….When you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.” (Luke 17:10) (2) Fear of losing our soul. “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul?” (Matt.16:26) (3) Love for Jesus. “If you love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15) (4) Desire to go to heav-en. “Receiving the end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.” (I Pet.1:9) Yet, there is one motivation that often is overlooked – the mercies of God. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Rom.12:1)
Because of the mercies of God we do not have to live in hell for all eter-nity. Because of God’s mercies, He gave his Son to die in our place. Jesus went to the cross “for our offenses, and was raised again for our justifica-tion.” (Rom.4:25) Because of God’s mercies we can have hope, redemption and eternal salvation. So now, realizing these things, what should be our natural response? Appreciation, gratitude, love, submission, joy, obedi-ence. We must never think lightly of “the riches of His goodness, forbear-ance and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance.” (Rom.2:4)
What is your motivation for living for Jesus? Don’t forget the mercies of God.
0 Comments