YOLO

My daughter blurted out "YOLO." I was curious to know what "YOLO" means. She said "Everyone knows what YOLO means." "What does it means" I retorted? Just picture an annoyed teen response  eyes rolling and all saying "You only live once." Catchy! As I gazed out my window rinsing dishes I let the phrase roll off my tongue "YOLO." I asked myself "Does that line up with what God has to say in His word?"

We are born sinners. Continually God invites us into relationship with Him. If we respond to that invitation we are "Born Again." At some point we all die and if we declare Jesus as our Savior by grace we are eternally saved. Does this process leave space for "YOLO?"

There are so many similar sayings "Carpe Dium" meaning seize the day. "Once in a lifetime experience" was what I said in my younger years. Catch phrases, do they have soul meaning that requires some reflection? I say "Yes."

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”  The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (Psalm 46:10-11 NIV).

Psalm 46:10 is quoted on the knickknacks we buy . In a bible study I was asked to read verses ten AND 11. It is a process of humility to follow. I thought to myself "Go God teach it to Lainey."

What beauty. What simplicity. God speaks "Lainey, be still now, come on my child, find that sweet place where you and I can meet. Maybe take off your shoes for this is Holy. Do you know the one you come before? Let me tell you who, the creator of all things. The LORD GOD ALIMGHTY. Lainey, the one who protects you." I gulped because it hit me like a ton of bricks to be quiet and remember, remember who I am before.

You only live once. With every breath I take I must choose the light which is good or dark which is bad. I only live once. I let the light shine or hide it. I can't stress how desperate our homes, workplaces and most importantly our churches need to see your light shine. To speak to someone who the life has been knocked out of them from circumstances. Helping someone feel alive again!

Do I feel fully alive after obeying God and His instruction book to life?

"give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV). When I YOLO with God perspective I feel genuine and thankful. I don't feel like I have to run out eat, drink and be merry.

ASK YOURSELF:  What does YOLO mean for ME? 

PRAYER:  God, when I hear the phrase YOLO, can you help me see how that is done your way? I know I live once and have confidence that when I die I will live eternally with You. I am grateful that you give me confidence to live this life well.  In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.