But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in Your hand. (Psalm 31:14-15)

I have to admit that I’m sometimes a little amused when I read obituaries in the newspaper or hear what’s said at some peoples’ funerals. Whoever the deceased was, he or she was the greatest person who ever lived. There was never a person more compassionate, more loving, or more caring. This is because when someone dies, we want to say the best about him or her.  But what if we told the truth at funerals? What if someone stood up and said, “This guy was a jerk, right? He squandered his life. How many people did he rip off—including those of us right here in this room? Let’s face it, he was selfish. He didn’t care about others. All he cared about was himself. And quite frankly, I’m kind of glad he’s gone, aren’t you?”  Of course we would never say that. Instead, we might even stretch the truth about how wonderful a person was.  If someone were to sum up your life, what would they say you lived for? What will they remember you for? That will be your legacy. Wouldn’t you like it to be honestly said of you, “This person loved God. She cared about the things of God. He really cared about other people. This person really lived for the Lord.”

The ultimate waste is to throw your life away, to squander it. Yet so many people do. One day, you will breathe your last breath. One day, you will make your last statement. One day, you will eat your last meal. What will you be remembered for?

Live a life that matters. Live a life that makes a difference. Live a life for Him, and you will never regret it.