What is your general life posture? Are you suspicious of people’s true intentions – your family, neighbours, political leaders, and church leaders?  Are you dominated by fear of those who oppose you? Is your life marked by anxiety in relation to what might happen – climate catastrophe, financial ruin, illness?

And, is there another way to posture yourself?

What overriding purpose guides your everyday decision making? Is your overriding purpose guided by personal desires (I want to be the best student, best athlete, be as influential as possible, make as much money as possible)? Or, do you prioritize the good of others?

And, again, is there something more?  

Our Bible passage today answers these questions.  

1. Life Posture: Gratitude in All Things (vs. 25-27, 29b-30)
2. Life Problem: Guided by Love (vs. 28-29a)
3. Life Purpose: For God’s Glory (vs. 23-24; 31-11:1)