This funeral for friends is a morbid title, describing the spiritual struggle within us. It represents a confrontation with ourselves, a recognition of what is not of God and what truly is. This daily act of worship entails the sacrifice of self (Romans 12:1-2), putting off our old nature and putting on our new nature in Christ (Ephesians 4). It’s as if we are disrobing soiled clothing.
However, the attitude of someone experiencing this transformation should not be one of solemnness or grief, but one filled with joy. We are called to rejoice; we are called to count it all joy (James 1:2). The joy comes from being a new creation in Christ Jesus, from receiving eternal life, being adopted into His family, and no longer being considered enemies of God but rather His friends. Thus, all this dying to self should not be met with morbidity; it is compelled by the love of God (2 Corinthians 5:14-15), knowing that He is doing a good work in me (Philippians 1:6).
Our attitudes and the way we carry ourselves, if we are in Christ, compelled by love (1 Corinthians 10:31), and being made new in Him, should draw attention to God rather than ourselves.
Consider the following verses from Matthew 6:16-18:
16 “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face 18 so that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
Our attitude, the way we carry ourselves, should not glorify our own religiosity, spirituality, or accomplishments, but should give glory to the One who fulfilled all on our behalf (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. -Ephesians 3:20-21
I am finding joy in allowing certain things in my life to die. Forming habits takes time. I didn’t have any Bible study in my life prior to moving to Georgia. I just went about each day completely on my own. Now, I have multiple studies, reading and videos I watch throughout each day all about gaining wisdom in God’s word. I see life so differently now and it has changed me in a good way.
The Journey Begins.
Before moving to Georgia I went to church was active in the church, worked with kids in the church but never really knew Christ . Little did I know God has a plan. I thought moving to Georgia was a huge mistake. All of the ups and downs feeling defeated. Turns out it was a huge blessing. God has stripped away all of the things I thought was once important. Big house, Fancy job title. He made me realize.. The only important title is “Disciple” (Matthew 28:19 )
Like Paul in Acts scales have fallen from my eyes I now see clearly. Rejoicing in my sufferings. Being humbled by the Lord. I know how important it is to have a support group someone to lean on. And at times be leaned on. I now know what it is to be loved and to love others like Christ loves me. There will always be trials and tribulations in life, but God will carry you through every storm in your life and give you strength to make it.
Thank you Lord for giving me the strength and perseverance to make it through the storm. Thank you for teaching me pickup my cross to die to myself everyday.Thank you for giving me the brothers that I need to lean on. Thank you for teaching how to love and be loved.
Thank you….
If I must die so that Christ can live through me, then this death is certainly not a tragedy. In the past eight or nine years of my life when I have actually been a practicing Christian, I have seen a huge change in myself. I have a very different mentality than I had before. It has all been for the better.. I pray that he will never stop refining me and helping me to grow into a better man. I am grateful for the people he has put in my life to help me along this journey. Men like you guys.