Three Types of Lives: Life is a Carousel

Some people are “Alive to Survive.” They live in chaos bouncing to and fro in the changing tide of circumstances. Their goal is simple – sanity; their motive is clear – fear. Can they continue this pace without coming apart at the seams? They fall into bed at night exhausted knowing that tomorrow will be more of the same.

Others are “Alive to Arrive.”  They live in a pressure cooker seeking more “things” – wealth, possessions, position, power, and prestige. Their goal is simple – success; their motive is clear – greed. Can they continue to maintain their success without losing it all? They fall into bed at night wondering when the bubble will burst, and fearful that it might be tomorrow.

Finally, fewer people are “Alive to Thrive.” They pour themselves into serving others by building relationships and meeting needs. Their goal is simple – obedience; their motive is clear – significance.  They fall into bed at night knowing that they are making a difference for Christ with their one and only lives.

Which life are you living? The answer is simple – all of them; the reason is clear – you’re a sinner – and so am I.  The problem is daily – life happens. Problems arise; the unexpected happens; people intrude; and selfishness abounds. In the midst of the swirling vortex of changing conditions even the most mature believer falters and fails at times. One moment, so to speak, we’re “walking on water.” The next instant we’ve taken our eyes off Jesus and are “beginning to sink.”

I got up one Saturday morning and had my “Quiet Time.” I sang worship choruses before diving into the Word. Thanking God for a brand new day, I prayed for my family, friends, and myself. Finally, I asked God to fill me with His power that I might live this day to please Him.

It was a sunny day with a bright blue sky. I decided to visit a local car dealership just to look around. I didn’t need a new car and wasn’t planning to buy one. Periodically I like to look at new models to “see what’s out there.”

I told the salesman I was just looking and started to wander around the lot. The vehicles were all so new, clean, and alluring. The sun sparkled off their pristine exterior. I opened one door and – you guessed it –I sighed as I was breathed in that new car smell.

I looked over at my old car. There was a small dent on the bumper from when I backed into a post. The sides were dirty from the rigors of the road. I opened the door and – you guessed it – sighed as I was greeted by the leftover smell of McDonald hamburgers.

The salesman sauntered over as my eyes – and nose – returned to the new auto. “That’s a beautiful car,” he said. I had to agree. It was a great looking automobile. “We’re having a special this weekend only,” he continued. “If you buy it today I can knock 10% off the sticker price, and give you a good price on your old car.” Wow! Ten percent off was a great deal.

“The best part,” as he moved in for the kill, “is that we offer 0% financing for the next 48 months.” It was such a great deal I “couldn’t pass it up.” As I headed home I tried not to think about how my car’s value had dropped just driving off the lot.

I slept restlessly that night wondering how I was going to pay for it. I was going to go into debt to make the monthly payments. The smart thing to do would’ve been to take it back within the 72 hour grace period. I didn’t. I mean – come on – it was such a beautiful car at such a great price!

In the span of one day I went through all three types of lives. I started out “thriving,” pursued “arriving” and fell into “surviving” – for the next 48 months.

The secret to being “Alive to Thrive” is simple. The answer is clear. The “Alive to Thrive” life only happens when you walk with Jesus Christ allowing Him to direct and empower your life. And when you mess up, ask Him for forgiveness and move on. It’s the only way to live – at least for the next 48 months … and beyond.

©2011 Designed to Serve