FAITHFUL LIVING

At a recent insurance industry conference I attended, I was presented with a sobering statistic: one in three Singaporeans will suffer from a critical illness (such as cancer, stroke, or heart attack) in their lifetime. This highlights the importance of insurance—especially critical illness coverage—as it provides a vital lump sum payout that helps individuals maintain their lifestyle while taking a sabbatical from work to focus on recovery.

As I reflected on this, another truth came to mind: it is 100% certain that everyone will eventually face death. Since death is inevitable, wouldn’t we all want the assurance of eternal life with God after our physical death? Compared with the short time we spend in this world, eternity with God is infinitely greater and should be our ultimate focus.

My simple conclusion is this: to secure that assurance with God, we must choose to live a faithful life here on earth. And we can do so by (1) living with God at the centre of our lives, and (2) following Christ’s example.

1.To Live with God at the Centre

Every person builds life around something. For some, it may be career success; for others, wealth, relationships, or personal dreams. But as Christians, we are called to live with God at the very centre of our lives. This means He is not just part of our life—He is the foundation, the guiding compass, and the source of everything we do.

God as Our Guide

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6Living with God at the centre means seeking His wisdom in every decision, submitting our plans to His will, and trusting His timing. Instead of being driven by fear or self-reliance, we walk by faith, knowing He is in control.

God as Our Provider

Living with God at the centre also means recognizing that every blessing comes from Him. Instead of chasing after material wealth or worrying about tomorrow, we rest in His provision. 

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33When we focus on God, we shift from striving for the temporary to trusting in the eternal.

God as Our Purpose

When God is not at the centre, we risk living only for ourselves. But true fulfillment comes when we live for His glory. 

 “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” - 1 Corinthians 10:31Every choice, task, and opportunity which comes by becomes one whereby decisions are God-centered and used for God’s glory.

Living from the Centre

To live with God at the centre is not about perfection but alignment. It is choosing daily to align our hearts, decisions, and actions with His will. It means surrendering control, trusting His wisdom, and seeking His glory in all things.

When God is at the centre, life finds its balance. Peace replaces anxiety, purpose replaces aimlessness, and joy replaces emptiness. May we live each day not with ourselves on the throne, but with Christ as Lord of our hearts.

2.Follow Christ’s Example

The Christian life is not merely about believing in Christ but also about following Him. To follow Christ’s example means walking in His footsteps - shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and actions to reflect His. Jesus did not just come to save us; He came to show us how to live.

Christ’s Example of Humility

Though He was the Son of God, Jesus humbled Himself.

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and becoming in the likeness of men.” - Philippians 2:5–7As His followers, we are called to set aside pride, selfish ambition, and personal glory, choosing instead a path of humility and service.

Christ’s Example of Obedience

Jesus lived in complete obedience to the Father’s will - even to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). 

 “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” - Luke 22:42

Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane is a powerful model for us. We follow His example when we surrender our own desires and trust God’s will, even when it is difficult.

Christ’s Example of Love

Above all, Jesus lived a life of perfect love. 

A new commandment I give you: that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” - John 13:34His love was sacrificial, patient, and unconditional. Our calling as Christians is to mirror this love in our families, workplaces, communities, and even toward those who are difficult to love.

Walking in His Footsteps

To follow Christ’s example is not about achieving perfection but about ongoing transformation. The world does not need more people who simply profess Christ—it needs believers who truly reflect Christ. Let us walk as He walked, so that others may see Him through us and be drawn to the light of His grace.

Conclusion

Faithful living is not about waiting until we reach eternity—it begins here and now. When we live with God at the centre of our lives and follow Christ’s example, we experience His peace, purpose, and joy on earth while preparing for the eternal life to come. By aligning our hearts with God and walking in Christ’s footsteps, we live with the assurance of His presence today and the hope of being with Him forever.

Ask Yourself:

1. What should I do to secure the assurance with God?

2. What does it mean to believe that God is our Provider?

3. What must I start doing now in order to be pleasing to God?

Suggested Answers:

1. Live with God at the centre of my life and follow Christ’s example.

2. It means to rest in His provision instead of chasing after material wealth or worrying about tomorrow.

3. You may discuss this with any member you are close with.