|
Our Object & Joy
John Nelson Darby died in Bournemouth, England, on April 29, 1882, at the age of 81. As his life was ebbing away he made this statement in summary of his time on earth as a believer: “Christ is my object for life, and my joy for eternity.” What a wonderful testimony from a man who had spent most of his life serving the Lord. At the end, he had no regrets and a bright future ahead in the Father’s house.
The Apostle Paul expressed the desire and goal for his life by saying, “That I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24). Brought before the council, he affirmed, “I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” (Acts 23:1). In his last epistle, near the end of his life, he could confirm, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). What a testimony to the grace of God and a life lived in the fear of the Lord!
If you knew you were about to leave this world, what testimony would you give? Would it be with the satisfaction of a life lived for Christ and the joy of anticipating being with Him? Or would it be a testimony of apologies and regrets? We only have one life to live. Live it for Christ!
|
