MORNING MANNA         10/15/20

I recently read a statement that we’ve all heard before – “Image is everything!”. It’s a shame that anyone believes that, but it is evident that many people do. They are obsessed with their image. To them it is indeed “everything”. Whether it is yearning for youthful looks, the wealth of the world, or the praise of people, they seek to appear successful in the sight of others. That means “everything” to them. The problem is, that isn’t true. Your character is more important than your reputation. Reputation is what others think you are. Character is what you are.

Christlike character should be of the greatest importance to us. That is the goal toward which God is working for each of us (Rom. 8:29). It matters not what image we project to the world unless they see Christ in us. Without that we make even the glorious gospel repulsive to others. You can be the most popular person on the planet, yet unknown by Christ. You can be the wealthiest person in the world and yet be spiritually bankrupt. You can have a long life with youthful looks, but not have eternal life. You can be healthy until the day you die, but you will go to hell without Christ. You can pretend to be a child of God and deceive others, but you can’t fool God. Your image will be of no value to you on that day when you stand before Christ and hear Him say, “Depart from me. I never knew you“.

Neither your image nor your imagination will get you into heaven. You need an inheritance that Christ alone can provide. And after trusting Christ as your Lord and Savior, living for Christ by becoming like Christ should be what your life is all about. Living so that others see Christ in us should be what you long and strive for. Whatever life might be for others, Paul said, “For to me to live is Christ”. Can you honestly say the same? – HDS

David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
5801 FM 1960 E
Humble, TX. 77346