“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” 1 Corinthians 10:31  (NIV)

Henry David Thoreau, the 19th Century philosopher, said, “Most men lead lives of quiet desperation.” Maybe Thoreau’s statement defines your experience. Deep down, in your private place, behind your outward persona, you’re desperately searching for meaning. You’re wondering why you feel so empty, asking, “What’s the point of going on day after day?” Despite the good times, you’re left with a fistful of emptiness. Despite the many beautiful things in your life, your inner garden is wilting.

Futility! You can feel empty with a full stomach, discover sexual relationships promise more than they deliver, realize the more you learn the less you know, and conclude that although work’s a good thing it’s not everything. Companionship isn’t enough to live for. Financial contentment will always elude the person who desires more. And fame, prestige or power, are short-lived at best.

“Gosh! I feel like a real good cry!

Life, he says, is a cheat, a fake.

Well, I agree with the grouchy guy –

The best you get is an even break.”

Franklin Pierce Adams.

Are Adams’ words true? Is the best you get an even break? I don’t believe it is. There are some things that make human life better than animal life. There’s a purpose in life that transcends the despair of living only for this life. There’s something more than eating, drinking and being merry . . . something more than the pursuit of personal happiness. And what would that be? What will make you jump out of bed in the morning? What would fill you with hope for tomorrow? What will really float your boat? What makes life worth living?

The answer: Living only all for Jesus. You were made for a far bigger purpose than yourself. It’s not about you! It’s all about Him! Choose to put Jesus in first place and everything else falls into place. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Live for Jesus – that’s what matters!