Scripture: “If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus with no more than human hopes, what have I gained? If the dead are not raised, ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.'” – 1 Corinthians 15:32
Observation: In this verse, Paul reflects on the futility of life without the resurrection. He mentions his struggles and the hardships he faced, implying that without the hope of resurrection, all his efforts would be meaningless. The phrase “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die” captures a life without hope, where people live only for the present moment because there is no future to look forward to. However, Paul contrasts this with the reality of the resurrection, which gives believers a vision of a new world to come and empowers them to live with purpose and hope.
Application: Reflecting on this verse, I am reminded of the transformative power of the resurrection in my life. Without the resurrection, my life would be devoid of hope and meaning. But because Christ is risen, I have the assurance of a future with Him. This hope gives me purpose and courage: Just as taking up the cross led to the resurrection of Jesus, so too, dying to myself and living for Christ will lead to a glorious future with Him. The hope of the resurrection transforms the way I live my life today: not striving to get as much as I can, but to serve and love as much as I can. I was reminded today that, especially when facing trials, I need to keep the vision of the resurrection constantly before me. Whenever dying to myself in order to live for Christ feels like a trial, I need to remember that it comes with the promise of resurrection and new life.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for the hope and assurance that your resurrection brings. Help me to live each day with the vision of the new world to come, empowered by the reality of your resurrection. Strengthen my faith and give me the courage to face my struggles, knowing that my efforts are not in vain. Fill me with your hope and joy, and help me to share this good news with others. Amen.
