Having young kids means I frequently have conversations with them where I explain that they cannot always have their way. They are being taught to be selfless and kind even when they do not feel like it. Having the “it is not about you” conversation with them reminds me that, honestly, as Christians, nothing in life is truly about us. Our primary purpose is to do the will of the Father and to give God glory.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it is tempting to get caught up in the details and forget that life is meant to be lived in full view of eternity. We are here only for as long as God allows, and after that we will be called home to be with Him. At that time, our actions will be tested by the God who knows our hearts and sees all things. Are our actions truly altruistic, or do they come from selfishness, gluttony, or vainglory? We will all receive rewards or consequences.

1 Corinthians 3:11–15 says:

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ. Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person’s work has any value. If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames.” (NLT)

While there is a reward in eternity for doing the will of the Father, there is also a reward on earth when we keep our focus on God’s kingdom and His will.

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” — Isaiah 26:3 (NLT)

In addition, Jesus says in Matthew 11:28–30:

“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.”

This suggests that by taking His yoke, which is doing His will, we will find rest for our souls.

I submit to you that living a victorious life for eternity is contingent upon prioritizing God’s will over our own.

Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (NKJV)

I try to continuously remind myself that “it is not about you,” and I think you should too. As we seek to live our lives in line with God’s will and die to self daily, may He crown our lives, now and into eternity, with goodness, blessings, and peace.

Amen.