The difference between a Christ-centered life and a Self-centered one has profound implications, not only for the quality of life here on Earth but also one's eternal destiny.
Christ-Centered Living Being Christ-centered means that Jesus is the focus, motive, and driving force behind everything you do. It reflects a life lived in accordance with Matthew 22:37-40, where Jesus commands us to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" and to "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Spiritual Growth A Christ-centered life allows for continual Spiritual growth. The Holy Spirit works within us to become more like Christ in our Thoughts, Words, and Deeds. This process, often referred to as Sanctification, is a lifelong journey.
Kingdom Impact When Christ-centered, we are aligned with God's will and thus become instruments of His Peace, Love, and Justice on Earth. This kind of life leaves a legacy and has an Eternal impact, extending far beyond our temporal existence.
Eternal Reward Scripture is clear that a Christ-centered life leads to Eternal life with God. In John 3:16, we're told that "whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." While good works don't earn Salvation, they naturally express our love for God and store treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20).
Self-Centered Living In contrast, a Self-centered life revolves around the ego. It's guided by the trinity of "Me, Myself, and I," often neglecting God's will and plan.
Temporal Satisfaction While Self-centered living may offer immediate gratification, the satisfaction is often short-lived. This lifestyle prioritizes material wealth, status, and earthly pleasures, all fleeting.
Shallow Impact A self-centered approach may lead to worldly success but lacks Eternal value. As Jesus warns in Mark 8:36, "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?"
Eternal Consequences Scripture warns that a life apart from Christ leads to Eternal separation from God. The Self-centered approach disregards God's will, effectively placing oneself as the idol in their life, a clear violation of the First Commandment (Exodus 20:3).
Conclusion The choice between being Christ-centered or Self-centered has an everlasting impact. It affects how we relate to others, our ability to fulfill our God-given purpose, and our eternal destiny. By living a Christ-centered life, we enter into a Divine partnership with God, who equips us to face life's challenges and to serve as His ambassadors on Earth.
Notes:
We must make conscious decisions daily to pick up the Cross and follow Jesus, affecting our lives and potentially influencing others toward their Eternal Salvation.
Living a Christ-centered life holds incomparable importance. When one's life revolves around the Teachings and Principles of Jesus Christ, it brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment that can't be achieved through Self-centered pursuits. A Christ-centered approach instills a moral and ethical framework that guides interactions and decisions, ultimately fostering a life of greater significance and impact.
Moreover, from a Spiritual perspective, a Christ-centered life aligns us more closely with the ultimate source of all Goodness, Love, and Truth, enabling us to face life's challenges with resilience and courage. The Eternal implications are evident in Scripture: while self-centeredness leads to Spiritual separation, Christ-centeredness promises Eternal unity with God.
I believe the choice to live a Christ-centered life is not just beneficial; it's crucial. It can transform Lives, Communities, and even Generations, offering present and Eternal rewards.