Colossians 2:6 (NIV): So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him
Four years ago I started a big project. In November of 2017 I had a stack of lumber, sheet metal, and other parts delivered to our property. There were big pieces and small, literally thousands of pieces. I jokingly said that it was the biggest IKEA project I had ever undertaken. Just six months after delivery, with the help of friends, my wife and I completed a 32’ by 56’ barn. We lived in the barn for over six months and we now continue to use it. It is great.
Finishing what I start is something I try to do. Sometimes it is hard. Oftentimes it would be easier to quit.
I started following Jesus when I was 8 years old. I did what Paul talks about in the above verse, I “received Christ Jesus as Lord.” There is a lot wrapped up in those words. I had to do something. I had to receive what was offered to me. The Bible says it is a free gift. In other words, my salvation was not something I earned.
Making Jesus Lord meant that I was no longer in control of my life. Jesus became my boss. I submitted to His control.
Perhaps the most challenging part of Jesus being Lord of my life is what Paul states in the second part of the above verse. I need to continue to live my life in him. Starting is one thing. Continuing is quite another.
Jesus talked about those who start but don’t finish. In his parable about sowing seeds Jesus says that some seed spouted up fast, but didn’t have deep soil so the plant didn’t continue. The plant died. Did that plant even represent a saving relationship with Jesus? I don’t want to find out. I want to continue to live my life in him.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I made you my Lord many years ago. I never ever want to stop following You. I commit to continuing to live in You every day of my life. I commit to submit.
