Seatbelt Check
*Note: I am saved by the blood of Jesus, so I know that I am made right with the Father and I will have eternal life. But what we forget sometimes is that God uses us to reach others, and when we don’t follow His will and plan for us, there are eternal consequences to those around us. How many people did He intend for us to reach, that we felt to embarrassed to talk to? How many times would an act of kindness have shown God’s love to someone who needed to see it, but we didn’t want to take the time? Our willingness to follow Christ has an eternal impact on our lives and the lives of those around us.
6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. (1 Peter 1:6–7)
#raisingkids #seatbelt #followjesus #trialsandtribulations #dailydevotional
Reflecting on the concept of a “seatbelt check” in a spiritual context really resonates with me. Just as we buckle up before a journey for safety, checking our faith and commitment to following Jesus ensures our spiritual well-being amid life’s challenges. This article reminds me that faith isn’t just a private comfort but a call to action — to reach others, even when it feels uncomfortable. I’ve found that small acts of kindness can be powerful testimonies of God’s love to those who feel lost or overlooked. There were moments when I hesitated to share my faith because of fear or embarrassment, but reflecting on the eternal consequences—how missing one chance might prevent someone from experiencing hope—motivates me to be more courageous. The reminder from 1 Peter 1:6-7 about trials refining our faith like fire refines gold also speaks deeply to me. Life’s struggles can make maintaining faith difficult, yet they prove its authenticity. I’ve experienced discomfort and setbacks but came to realize they prepare me for greater spiritual maturity and a closer walk with Christ. It’s encouraging to remember that our willingness to follow Jesus doesn’t just transform us but has ripple effects on our families, communities, and even strangers. Just as a simple “seatbelt check” before driving protects our physical life, regularly examining and strengthening our faith protects our eternal life and influences those whom God places in our path. So, I encourage anyone reading this to reflect on their own “seatbelt check.” Are you fully secured in Christ, ready to face life’s trials, and actively sharing God’s love? Sometimes, an act of kindness or a conversation about faith is all it takes to reach someone who desperately needs encouragement. Let’s embrace our role in God’s plan and remember the eternal impact of our obedience and love.