The bottom line to a better world is found in the bottom line of The Message paraphrase of this verse: “And don’t take yourself too seriously—take God seriously.”

Take God seriously. 

Every day, we have the choice, every moment in fact, to decide who gets to decide — us or God. This should not be a hard choice. The conclusion should be apparent. Yet somehow, I have rationalized exceptions to the rule, alternate outcomes, even truly fantastical courses of action. The one thing all of my better ideas have in common is that none of them were better ideas. 

God always has the better idea.

Humility turns out to be kindness to ourselves and for others. 

Seeing God for who he is and ourselves in proper relation to him smooths out a whole lotta bumps. 

Sometimes, the best lessons are the simplest. It doesn’t get simpler than this:

Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, 
be compassionate and loyal in your love, 
And don’t take yourself too seriously— 
take God seriously.

Simple stuff, and yet profound.

Truly simple and forever life-changing.

God is fair and just. He is compassionate and loves us without limit. We get to live like him. We get to prescribe for ourselves and others the formula for a better life. 

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I will live a fair and just, compassionate and loving, God-exalting life. 

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Our Father, I want to live a fair and just, compassionate and loving, life that exalts you. As much as I want this to become my everyday reality, I know it is a lot easier to write this sitting here in my chair than it will be when I go downstairs, drive to work, and meet with people all day long. Please help me to live my intentions with your strength, your endurance, and your grace. I will most certainly fail otherwise. Amen.