The Eternal Upgrade – Part 2

Matthew 6:31-33 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Continuing Pastor Kyle’s message, he gives us five ways how to make every day preparations for our eternal upgrade. (1) Live a life of faithful obedience and worship. 1 Samuel 15:22 says, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.” Some people only go to the Lord when things are not going well. Life is busy, difficult and inconvenient by nature. We need to be walking in the Spirit continuously in order to gain that which cannot be bought with money … the fruit of the Spirit.

(2) Be content with what we have. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 says, “Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” The world’s standards for contentment are higher God’s standards. Unrealistic expectations lead to emotional pain and stress. Desire and look for Christ alone. Remember that we have been blessed, to be a blessing. (3) Live free from debt as quickly as possible. Romans 13:8 says, “Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.” People get funny about money. Debt makes us a slave. It’s a well known fact that the new car smell goes away long before the payment do. Have a plan to get out of debt.

(4) Make a plan for your stuff and your family. We are all responsible and accountable to prepare and have our personal affairs in order. Proverbs 13:22 tells us, “A good  man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” Be generous for a peaceful end. Maintain good a relation with your neighbors, acquaintances, friends and family. (5) remember to keep God’s kingdom first in life and in death. 1 Peter 2:11-12 says, “Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.” Seeking first the kingdom of heaven keeps the “right” perspective on this life as we keep our hearts and minds on eternity and the Lord. Do not live for today as the existentialist of this age live in the moment. Live for the eternal upgrade and live for eternity.

In Christ, Brian