Why Do I Live

Some one asked me the other day, why do I live? The question wasn't something philosophical but an honest, soul searching, gut wrenching question. One that begged an answer that gave true validity to that person's life. Surprising to me was the fact that, throughout the years, I have been asked that same question by several others. Why do I live? Why do you live? For me the answer is simple. I live because I am dead, you see I died to myself years ago (yes, it is true that old self often wants to resurrect itself, nevertheless I am determined that it is dead). Like the Apostle Paul I can say, "The life that I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me." Why do I live? I live for Him. I don't have to understand how valuable I am, I just have to know that I am valuable. I don't have to have a reason to live, just a determination to live, knowing that my life has worth and it is important because someone greater than I choose to give me worth. The Bible tells me that there is no greater love that that which is shown when a man gives his life for a friend. Jesus Christ gave his life for you and I. The price He paid indicates our value. Oh yes there are places to go and things to do, but they don't determine the value of one's life. You have value because you are loved. My reason for living isn't wrapped up in what I can do or what I have done but rather in who I am and who loves me. So if you also wonder why you live, meditate on Jesus' love for you instead of meditating on your failures and lack of abilities. Think about God's goodness instead of the vanity of life. The reason I live? It is to return the love to the one who loves me most. That sure takes the pressure off from my day!