In an Upside Down World, Does Living for God Really Matter?

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“A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.”

2 Timothy 2:24-25

Have you ever felt like the people around you who do not know God have an easier life? While you’re trying to live for God, they appear uninterested in knowing about your Jesus but seem to prosper and live carefree?

Psalm 73 describes this feeling vividly:

“They seem to live such painless lives;

their bodies are so healthy and strong.

They don’t have troubles like other people;

they’re not plagued with problems like everyone else.

They scoff and speak only evil;

They boast against the very heavens…

“What does God know?” they ask.

“Does the Most High even know what’s happening?”

Look at these wicked people —

enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply.

Did I keep my heart pure for nothing?

Did I keep myself innocent for no reason?”

(Psalm 73:4-5, 8-9, 11-14)

There are days I’ve felt this same way, but that’s when I must remember the truth of God’s Word. It teaches us that one day there will be a distinction between believers and unbelievers.

Don’t be intimidated by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved. (Philippians 1:28)
Don’t envy sinners but always continue to fear the Lord. You will be rewarded; your hope will not be disappointed. (Proverbs 23:17-18)
And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all His glory. (Colossians 3:4)
Then [after you have worked hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen], God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:11)
Then the name of our Lord will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with Him. (2 Thessalonians 1:12)
“On the day when I act in judgment, … you will see the difference between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.” (Malachi 3:17-18)

Considering these promises of God, let’s be inspired to have compassion and to live for Jesus – no matter who we are around. Be salt and light where God has placed us. Full of grace and truth. Love our enemies. Be kind, not resentful. Extend patience with difficult people, gently instructing in hope that God will change their hearts.

Praying that “they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap.” For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (2 Timothy 2:26)