Choosing Goodness
The Biblical Roadmap to a Positive Legacy
In a world rife with negativity, choosing to focus on the good seems not only rebellious but necessary. The Bible provides ample guidance on how to orient our lives around goodness and leave a legacy worth celebrating. Here are eight principles I stole from a Facebook post, supported by Biblical wisdom, that can help us foster positivity and meaningful impact.
1. It's Worth Fighting For
When challenges arise, it can be tempting to throw in the towel. But, as Ephesians 6:11 says, "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." Struggles are inevitable, yet our response to them defines us. Standing firm in goodness and integrity is worth every battle we encounter.
2. It's Worth Our Time
Making time for good deeds and uplifting activities isn't wasted effort. In James 4:14, we're reminded, "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow." Our time is limited; investing it in worthwhile causes aligns us with eternal principles.
3. It's Worth Preserving
Preserving goodness involves valuing and promoting virtues like justice, compassion, and righteousness. Proverbs 23:23 advises, "Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding." When we preserve what is good, we sustain a resource that benefits everyone.
4. It's Worth Our Effort
Effort spent in good pursuits is never in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58 tells us, "Be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord."
5. It's Worth Our Energy
Channeling our energy toward the positive leads to a satisfying life. Romans 12:21 suggests, "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." By consistently choosing good, we not only better ourselves but also improve the environment around us.
6. It's Worth Pursuing
To seek goodness is to journey toward a fulfilling life. Matthew 6:33 advises, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." By actively pursuing goodness, we align our goals with a higher purpose.
7. It's Worth Magnifying
Goodness, once identified, should be amplified for broader impact. Matthew 5:16 states, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." When we magnify what is good, we inspire others to do the same.
8. It's Worth Duplicating
Goodness is most effective when it's shared and replicated. As it is written in 2 Timothy 2:2, "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also." Spreading the good amplifies its effect, creating a virtuous cycle.
Conclusion
Choosing to focus on the good is not just a lifestyle choice; it's a commitment to a higher form of living. By adopting these eight Biblical principles, we don't just improve our own lives—we impact the world for the better. Remember, a positive legacy isn't built in grand, sweeping gestures but in daily decisions to choose, preserve, and propagate what is good.