Earlier in the year our youth group was asked if we were willing to die for Christ. I was surprised by the answers. Most kids were willing to die for family, friends, even strangers, but to die for Christ, there weren't many responses. Most kids fell silent because they either didn't know if they would or they felt that if that time was to ever come, they may not say yes.

I don't know how I would have responded when I was a teen. All I know is what I would say now.

However, something that has really been on my heart lately is not whether or not we are willing to die for Christ, but whether or not we are willing to
l
ive for him.

Every day, in the midst of our routines, our tasks, our work, our boredom, our highs, and our lows, we have choices. We have choices with our actions, our words, our reactions. What do you do in those times that may not appear so signifcant? Do you say hurtful things or get frustrated and mad and take it out on someone around you? Or do you treat every one with respect and love unconditionally?

It's too easy in our world today to only live for yourself. I am guilty of it on many occasions and so are you. We get wrapped up and trapped in this culture that says we must do everything for ourselves-we must be rich in money, get what we need from others to benefit ourselves, push others out of the way to get to the top, to succeed, to only do what is best for us, to stay away from the difficult stuff and strive for the easy life.

Though I may disagree with this, it does not mean that I always live my life this way. It can be a constant struggle, especially when the world is whispering yes and you feel like the only one screaming no. We are given choices every day, every moment. I hope you scream your lungs out.

Ephesians 5

 
1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children
2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

I encourage you to read the rest of the chapter.