Let Us Please God
Walter Hagen, a professional golfer said, “You're only here for a short visit. Don't hurry, don't worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.” This is one view of life. Another take on our time on earth can be seen in the famous quote, “I intend to live a fast life, die young and be a beautiful corpse,” published in a 1920 newspaper of a letter from Mrs. Irene L. Luce concerning her divorce. Both of these views of life focus on the few years we have on earth and give suggestions for how to spend those days.
The Bible also gives us guidance on how to spend our time wisely. The book of Ecclesiastes says man must fear and obey God (Ecclesiastes 12:13). In another passage, it says that we should act like our everyday lives are a loan from Him (Romans 12:1). He wants us to get rid of bitterness, rage and anger and to be kind to one and another and forgiving (Ephesians 4:31, 32). Also, He wants us to turn away from the evil so that we can do His good work (2 Timothy 2:21).
A few years ago, there was a saying about how we should act. It said, “What Would Jesus Do?” He would want us to be about God’s business while recognizing that our actions have eternal consequences. If we do what the Bible tells us to do, we will do well in life (Isaiah 1:19). Let us decide that we will spend our lives seeking God’s approval, direction, and wisdom.
Ecclesiastes 12:13
Amplified Bible
13 When all has been heard, the end of the matter is: fear God [worship Him with awe-filled reverence, knowing that He is almighty God] and keep His commandments, for this applies to every person.
Romans 12:1
New International Version
12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
Ephesians 4:31, 32
New International Version
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
2 Timothy 2:21
Amplified Bible
21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things [which are dishonorable—disobedient, sinful], he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified [set apart for a special purpose and], useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.
Isaiah 1:19
New International Version
19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land;
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