Only What You Do for Christ Will Last: Scripture KJV

The question many Christians grapple with is: what truly matters in this life? We strive for success, comfort, and security, but are these truly lasting rewards? Dr. Plez Lovelady Jr. powerfully argues that only a life devoted to Christ yields enduring value, echoing the sentiment of 2 Corinthians 4:18: "Only what’s done for Christ will last." This article will explore this profound truth using scripture and practical applications.

The Fleeting Nature of Worldly Success

Dr. Lovelady's devotional emphasizes the deceptive allure of the "American Dream" – the pursuit of material wealth, comfort, and social status. He warns against the trap of chasing these fleeting pleasures, highlighting their inability to satisfy the soul's deepest longings. Mark 8:36 poignantly reminds us, "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?"

This isn't a condemnation of honest work and provision for our families; rather, it's a caution against allowing worldly ambitions to become the central focus of our lives. When material possessions and achievements overshadow our relationship with God, we risk losing sight of our eternal purpose. We trade our true riches—a life dedicated to Christ—for temporary gains that ultimately leave us empty.

The "Cloned" Mindset

Lovelady uses the term "cloned" to describe the pervasive influence of a culture that encourages us to find fulfillment in superficial things. We are subtly conditioned to believe that happiness lies in relationships, careers, and financial success, often neglecting the spiritual dimension. The pressure to conform to these worldly values can lead us down a path of spiritual stagnation.

Instead of pursuing superficial pleasures that offer no lasting satisfaction, the scripture encourages us to seek a deeper, more meaningful purpose. Psalm 1:1-2 beautifully illustrates this contrast: "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night."

The Eternal Significance of Actions for Christ

The Bible is replete with verses that emphasize the enduring impact of actions performed for Christ. This isn't about earning salvation through works, but rather about the natural outpouring of a heart transformed by Christ's love. Romans 6:23 clarifies: "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

Our actions, rooted in faith and fueled by love for God, have eternal consequences. This profound truth is not just a theological concept; it affects every aspect of our lives. It challenges us to re-evaluate our priorities and choices, urging us to make decisions that align with God's will and purpose.

Building on a Solid Foundation

1 Corinthians 3:11-17 speaks to the importance of building our lives on the solid foundation of Christ. Only those things built upon this foundation will withstand the test of time. This is where the concept of "only what’s done for Christ will last" takes on its full significance. It's not simply about avoiding sin; it's about actively pursuing righteousness and living a life that glorifies God.

This concept isn't about self-righteousness or legalism; instead, it's about aligning our actions with our beliefs. A life dedicated to Christ will naturally overflow with acts of service, compassion, and love. These actions, motivated by faith and guided by the Holy Spirit, are the true expressions of a transformed heart.

Practical Application: Living a Life for Christ

The question then becomes: how do we practically live a life that aligns with this principle? It begins with a daily commitment to:

• Prayer and Bible Study: Consistent engagement with God's Word and prayer helps us to understand His will and to align our lives with His purpose.
• Serving Others: Acts of service, both big and small, are a natural expression of our love for God and our fellow humans. This could involve volunteering, helping those in need, or simply showing kindness to others.
• Living a Life of Integrity: Striving to live honestly and ethically reflects our commitment to God's standards.
• Sharing the Gospel: Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others is a vital aspect of a life dedicated to Him.

These are not mere suggestions; they are the natural outflows of a heart transformed by God's grace. They are the tangible expressions of a life dedicated to Christ.

Embracing Our Temporary Assignment

As Rick Warren eloquently puts it, this earthly life is a "temporary assignment." This perspective helps us to prioritize what truly matters. With eternity in view, the fleeting pleasures of this world lose their allure, and the importance of investing our lives in what truly lasts becomes crystal clear.

This perspective doesn't diminish the importance of our earthly responsibilities. Rather, it gives them proper context. We work diligently, invest wisely, and build strong relationships, not for our own glory, but for the glory of God and for the benefit of others. This approach brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment beyond what the world can offer. Only what you do for Christ will truly last, a testament to a life lived in His service.

Frequently Asked Questions: Only What's Done for Christ Will Last

What does "Only what's done for Christ will last" mean?

This phrase, echoing 2 Corinthians 4:18 ("For the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."), emphasizes that actions motivated by faith in and service to Christ have eternal significance. Unlike worldly achievements that fade, actions rooted in a genuine devotion to God endure beyond earthly life. It’s a call to prioritize spiritual investments over temporary, material gains.

Why is it important to focus on what I do for Christ?

Focusing on actions done for Christ aligns our lives with God's purpose for us. The author, Plez Lovelady Jr., argues that chasing worldly success ("the American dream") often leads to unfulfilled lives and a lost soul (Mark 8:36). True fulfillment comes from a life dedicated to God's glory, making Him the central focus of our lives. This prioritization ensures that our efforts contribute to something lasting and meaningful beyond our physical existence.

What are some examples of actions done for Christ?

Actions done for Christ encompass a broad range of activities motivated by faith and love for God. These could include serving others, spreading the Gospel, praying, engaging in acts of charity, living a life reflecting Christian values, and utilizing one's gifts and talents to build God's kingdom. Essentially, any action performed with a heart focused on serving God and His purposes falls under this category.

How does this relate to my daily life?

This principle affects every aspect of our daily lives. It challenges us to examine our motivations. Are our actions driven by the desire for worldly approval, material possessions, or fleeting pleasures? Or are they rooted in a sincere desire to serve Christ and honor Him in all that we do? By constantly examining our motivations, we can realign our focus on what truly matters for eternity.

Does this mean worldly work is unimportant?

No, the message doesn't negate the importance of worldly work. However, it calls for a shift in perspective. Even secular work can be done "for Christ" if approached with a spirit of excellence, service, and integrity, reflecting Christian values in the workplace and treating others with respect and kindness. The focus is on the motivation behind our actions, not solely the nature of the task itself.

What happens to actions that are not done for Christ?

The scripture suggests that actions not rooted in faith and service to God are ultimately temporary and without lasting significance. While they may offer fleeting satisfaction, they ultimately fail to provide the enduring fulfillment and joy found in a life devoted to Christ. This isn't about condemnation, but a call to consider the eternal implications of our choices.

Where can I find more information on this concept?

Further exploration of this concept can be found in the teachings of Plez Lovelady Jr., PhD, specifically his devotional piece "Strength for Today," and within the scriptures referenced in the provided text, including 2 Corinthians 4:18, Mark 8:36, and other passages emphasizing faith, service, and the eternal nature of God's Kingdom.