How to Live for Jesus
Today we will talk about how to live for Jesus. Many Christians do not know what this means. Living for Jesus is about more than just attending church services or reading the Bible occasionally; it encompasses cultivating a relationship with Him and allowing His teachings to influence our everyday choices. It’s a journey of faith and obedience that reflects our love for Him. Let’s meditate on God’s Word as we explore what it looks like to live a life devoted to Jesus.
Understanding Our Relationship with Jesus
Our relationship with Jesus is the foundation for how we live our lives. This relationship is not a mere religious duty but an ongoing conversation with the Creator of the universe. The term “relationship” in this sense comes loaded with meaning. In Hebrew, the word for relationship, “שִׁית” (shith), speaks not just to connections but also to the act of establishing and setting something in motion. In the New Testament, Greek words such as “κοινωνία” (koinonia) translate to communing, fellowship, or sharing. This indicates that living for Jesus involves mutual involvement and commitment.
Historically, believers in Jesus Christ were known as followers of “The Way” (Acts 9:2), suggesting an active journey or direction in life. Following Jesus is depicted as running a race (1 Corinthians 9:24). This metaphor underlines that our relationship is active; it requires effort and perseverance. Ultimately, living for Jesus means allowing His life to guide ours—in our decisions, actions, and attitudes.
Embracing Faith Through Action
Living for Jesus involves expressing our faith through our actions. The Book of James emphasizes that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). To put it simply, when we truly believe in something, it naturally manifests in how we behave. When we live for Jesus, our faith calls us to act justly, show mercy, and walk humbly (Micah 6:8). Being a follower of Jesus means that we embody the values He taught.
When Jesus preached in Matthew 5:14-16, He described His followers as the light of the world. This highlights that our actions matter; they have the potential to influence others positively. It goes beyond just doing good deeds so that we may appear righteous. The goal is to let our light shine in such a way that others may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. Living for Jesus also includes sharing the Gospel and being a voice of hope and love in the community.
Practicing Love and Forgiveness
One of the most powerful ways to live for Jesus is to practice love and forgiveness. Jesus commanded us to love one another just as He has loved us (John 13:34). Love is not merely a feeling but a choice and an action. In Greek, love is commonly referred to as “ἀγάπη” (agape), which signifies selfless, unconditional love. This form of love is core to living a life dedicated to Jesus; it’s love that requires sacrifice and commitment.
Additionally, we must recognize that forgiveness plays a crucial role in our journey. Jesus teaches us to forgive not just seven times, but seventy-seven times (Matthew 18:21-22). This relentless call for forgiveness shows that it should be an ongoing practice, freeing us from bitterness and enabling us to fully embrace love. When we forgive others, we mirror the grace we have received from Jesus. Living for Jesus means reflecting His love and forgiveness in our own lives.
Studying and Meditating on Scripture
If we want to truly live for Jesus, we must immerse ourselves in His Word. Scriptural study is fundamental, as the Bible serves as our spiritual nourishment (Matthew 4:4). The Bible teaches us about Jesus’ character, His teachings, and His underscores for our lives. In looking at the original languages, “בָּרָא” (bara) in Hebrew means to create, while in Greek, the word “λόγος” (logos) refers to the Word or expression. Both signify that God’s Word is alive and contributes to our growth.
Moreover, as we meditate on scripture, we develop deeper insights and more profound convictions which shape our character. Psalm 119:11 underscores that hiding God’s Word in our hearts helps us not to sin against Him. Regular reading, memorization, and reflection on passages can transform our thought processes and behaviors, allowing us to align our lives closely with Jesus’ will.
Being Part of a Community
No one is designed to live the Christian life in solitude. Being part of a community aids our growth and provides accountability. The early church is a perfect example; they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teachings, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). This community acted as a support system that nourished their faith, reinforced their beliefs, and encouraged them to live for Jesus.
Engaging with other believers helps us experience different perspectives and insights which can enhance our own understanding. As we bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and celebrate the joys and successes in each other’s lives, we learn how to love deeply and meaningfully. Community is essential for spiritual growth, as it fuels our motivation and commitment to living for Christ.
Serving Others
Living for Jesus is greatly expressed through serving others. Jesus modeled servant leadership when He washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:12-15) and called us to serve one another. In Mark 10:45, Jesus remarked that He came not to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. Service is not optional for believers; it is a vital aspect of our faith that expresses our love for Jesus by fulfilling the needs of others.
Additionally, serving others opens doors to share the Gospel and demonstrate Christ’s love in action. Whether that means volunteering at a local shelter, helping a neighbor, or simply being there for a friend in need, every act of service can be a reflection of Jesus’ heart for people. When we serve, we fulfill the command to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31) and fulfill the law of Christ.
Maintaining an Active Prayer Life
Lastly, living for Jesus requires commitment to an active prayer life. Prayer is our communication line with God (1 Thessalonians 5:17), allowing us to connect, share, and seek guidance. The Greek word for prayer, “προσευχή” (proseuché), emphasizes speaking to God with earnestness and sincerity. Jesus emphasized the importance of prayer in His own life by often withdrawing to pray (Luke 5:16). This practice teaches us humility and reliance on God’s strength.
Through prayer, we pour out our hearts to God, seek wisdom for our decisions, and align our desires with His will. Philippians 4:6-7 assures us that when we bring our requests before God, we will find peace. Therefore, an active prayer life nurtures our relationship with Jesus as it brings us closer to His heart and purpose for our lives.
Final Thoughts
Living for Jesus is not one-dimensional; it is a multifaceted journey filled with love, service, prayer, and community. By embracing our relationship with Him, practicing love and forgiveness, engaging with scripture, serving others, and maintaining an active prayer life, we can embody the values Jesus has called us to live by. As we continue on this path, let’s encourage one another, drawing closer to Jesus daily, and reflecting His light to everyone around us.
Ultimately, we carry God’s message of love and hope in our hearts. As we commit ourselves to living for Jesus, we find fulfillment not just for ourselves but also in the lives we touch. Let us step into this adventure with joy, knowing we are never alone on this journey.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4