We all have our own metaphors for life… life is a game, life is a movie, a theater performance.
But, what is God’s view of life? After all, He is the one who designed it and created it. How does He view life? As a game we play to ‘win’? As a performance – act your heart out until the curtains close?
Biblical metaphors for God’s view of Life:
- Life is a Test
- Life is a Trust
- Life is a Temporary Assignment
Life as a Test
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
As a test, each day is purposed by God – purposed to develop our character, our faith, our hope, our love. God watches how we respond to people, to circumstances, to possessions. Seeing life this way challenges us to see each day as important and every moment as a growth opportunity.
Life as a Trust
This is the metaphor that hit me the most today. Life as a trust. God has entrusted everything we have to us. Our ability to see, to learn, to create – all from Him. Our jobs, our friends, our communities – all from Him. To whom much is given, much is expected. (Luke 12:48)
Entrust; verb
- to charge or invest with a trust or responsibility; charge with a specified office or duty involving trust
- to commit (something) in trust to; confide, as for care, use, or performance (dictionary.com)
We are stewards of everything God has given us. From the very beginning, God formed the world and then He took all He had created and entrusted it all to us. Entrusted it to us to steward, to cultivate and to enjoy. (Genesis 1:26-28)
We are to be faithful stewards of all God has entrusted to us.
“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.
Luke 16:10-11
And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven?
