Learning to live by the indwelling life of Christ.
This is the message of the psalms, this is the wisdom of God, this is “to live is Christ” – Blessed are all who take refuge in him. Will you take your refuge in the unconditional love and grace of the blessed man, Jesus the Christ? Will you walk with him? Stand with him? Sit with him? Will you be planted in his salvation? Or will you be a wicked fool today, relying on your own righteousness?
“To live is Christ” gives us a response to our suffering unlike any other. Not “such is life,” or “it could have been worse,” or “I just have to move on.” Our response in Christ is far greater. “For I know that my Redeemer lives and at last he will stand upon the earth.” This is a hope that can actually sustain you. This is a hope that can actually bring you to a place of worship in your sorrow. This is a hope in a Redeemer God that will resurrect, restore, and renew all that you have ever lost in this life.
“To live is Christ” means when suffering comes, and it will, we can trust that God will always give and take away whatever is best for us. Why? Because on the cross he already gave us what he will never take away – Jesus. His life. His righteousness. His eternity. His forever love.
“To live is Christ” means nothing in your life is random. You are exactly where God wants you to be for his redemptive purpose. Now, like Esther, you can embrace your identity in him, giving your life for others without fear of failure, loss, or even death. You can identify with Christ your Savior, whatever the cost.
“To live is Christ” has brought us into the joy of the LORD. Yes, weep over your sin, this is right and good. But then rejoice over your Savior, for he rejoices over you. Let your mourning be turned to dancing and your sorrow to gladness. Let your cross become your resurrection. Let the imputed holiness of Christ cause you to delight in him. Let his grace make you happy (it’s okay, you’re allowed), and find your strength in the joy of the Lord.
“To live is Christ” means all who are in Christ have been brought out of the exile of death and into the promised land of his eternal life. Now, in Christ, we never have to feel disconnected from God in our physical exile, for Christ has ended our spiritual exile.
To Live is Christ 