It wasn’t that long ago when “YOLO” ruled the decision making of an entire generation. “You only live once” was typically heard right before a cliff jump, an impulsive purchase, or the downing of some potentially expired food. The idea behind it was simple: life is short, so why not take risks and embrace every opportunity?
Either the fad lost it’s cool, or most people figured out it was a farce. We don’t just live once. Our choices extend beyond this life and can ripple into eternity.
Jesus calls us to a different kind of urgency–not one fueled by reckless abandon and daredevil acts, but of purposeful living. Instead of making brash decisions based on temporary thrills, we’re called to seek wisdom, discern truth, and live with eternity in mind.
Easier said then done, and if you’re like me, you’ve got a lot of YOLO moments in your past. Too many, and this one life we’ve been given can start to feel like an eternity to slog through.
So how do we shift our perspective? It starts by asking what would bring God the most glory instead of what would bring me the biggest thrill. It begins by understanding the decisions of today can–and many times will–impact tomorrow. It’s going to God and apologizing for the reckless ways we’ve lived, while asking for wisdom for now.
Yes, we only get one life. Let’s live for something greater.
