How can we prioritize Jesus' words over worldly influences in daily decisions? Anchor Truth: Jesus’ Words Outlast Everything “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.” — Mark 13:31 Why This Matters • Everything visible is temporary (1 John 2:17); Christ’s words are permanent. • If His words endure, they must govern every choice that will echo into eternity. Spotting the Competing Voices • Entertainment streams, ads, and social media feed appetites (1 John 2:16). • Peer expectations shape priorities (Galatians 1:10). • Personal feelings can mislead (Jeremiah 17:9). Practical Ways to Give Jesus the Loudest Voice • Start the morning by reading or listening to Scripture before touching a phone (Psalm 119:105). • Memorize one verse a week; carry it into conversations and decisions (Colossians 3:16). • Filter every option: – Does it match Christ’s commands? (John 14:15) – Will it build on rock, not sand? (Matthew 7:24-27) • Replace idle scrolling with worship songs or solid Bible teaching podcasts (Romans 12:2). • Journal choices and trace outcomes; obedience strengthens discernment (Hebrews 5:14). • Keep close fellowship with believers who challenge you to obey Scripture (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Act promptly when the Spirit brings a verse to mind; delayed obedience dulls hearing (James 1:22). Living Examples • Money: Before a purchase, ask, “Will this honor the Master’s resources?” (Matthew 6:24). • Speech: Pause and recall Ephesians 4:29 before posting or replying. • Relationships: Let 1 Corinthians 13 guide how you date, marry, or reconcile. • Time: Plan the week around worship, service, and rest first, then fit lesser tasks around them (Matthew 6:33). • Media: Refuse shows that celebrate sin; choose content that’s “true, honorable, just…” (Philippians 4:8). Encouragement for the Journey • His voice is knowable: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” — John 10:27 • Scripture equips for every decision: “That the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.” — 2 Timothy 3:17 • Meditating day and night brings steady success: “Then you will prosper and succeed in all you do.” — Joshua 1:8 Jesus’ words never expire; prioritizing them today shapes choices that will still matter when heaven and earth pass away. |