Yesterday the world learned of the passing of Apple mogul Steve Jobs. Mr. Jobs was responsible for developing a great deal of technology that has impacted billions of people all over he world. The ipod and ipad totally revolutionized how people listen to music & communicate at the touch of a finger. People held candlelight vigils outside of the Apple gates, posted facebook messages and made mention of how grateful they were for his contribution to society.
It is a wonderful thing for a man to be celebrated at the end of his days. To have triumphed in life and made a difference must make one feel a sense of comfort and achievement. However, once you have breathed your last breath the only accolades that will matter will be those spoken to you by God. Have you done well in his eyes or not? The apostle Paul said in the book of Philippians, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." This is a message of faith in the fact that his life was a sacrifice to the name of Christ. All that he did and all that he was belonged to Him. He states that even in his death he wins! Why would he say that? What about living for Christ and dying in him brings gain?
When we think of all of those who have passed on this year-Steve Jobs & Michael Jackson to name a few, we have to wonder if in all of their glory in life they have found gain in death. The bible says, "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36 Great inventions, the Forbes list, being voted most beautiful, etc. all of these things falls away at deaths door. The old saying, "You can't take it with you" is true when we are talking about things accumulated in this world. Yet, those things that we do for Christ will last into the next world. Our salvation, accomplishing what He has called us to do, changing lives, loving people, obeying His Word, etc. these things will bring a reward in the life to come that even death can't take away.
Those who are wise among us will seek after the things that are eternal. Excel in this life, fulfill your potential while alive on the earth, but don't forget the great thing-to live your life with an eternity mindset. If I die today will God be pleased with what I did with what He gave me? Our hope is not in the earth. I hope is in the promise of things to come.
Be encouraged everyone. Know that your labour down here is not in vain. Continue to lay up treasures in heaven and live this life to the fullest. Bring God glory in all that you do, and at the end of your days, may you find great gain.
Shalom.
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