Fulfilling Our Responsibilities

The View From Above: Thoughts to Help With Everyday Life

June 23, 2026

Pastor Paul Stephens

Fulfilling Our Responsibilities

We all have responsibilities to one another.

We really do.

We are responsible for being an example that is worthy of others following. Before we act, we should consider how our actions affect those around us.

We have a profound influence on the people closest to us.

When we handle life wisely, it impacts others and often encourages them to do the same.

This is what being the “light of the world” is all about.

Scripture Focus

Matthew 5:14-16

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Who around you is glorifying God because of what they see in your life?

That is something worth considering.

Along with being a good example, we have a responsibility to love.

And that means loving without prejudice.

We do not simply love those who love us. We do not reserve our affection only for those who treat us kindly or never hurt us.

That kind of love is selective.

That is loving with prejudice.

The love of Jesus is different.

John 13:34-35

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

“All will know?”

Who is “all”?

The people around us. The people we encounter every day.

They can see love. They can see it flowing from our lives.

Do people see love in you?

It is our responsibility to make sure they do.

Finally, we have a responsibility to Jesus.

In light of all that He has done for us, is it unreasonable for us to give our all to Him?

Our obligation to God is obedience without compromise—loving Him above all else and allowing nothing to supersede our devotion to Him.

Mark 12:30

“And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment.”

Giving our all.

Putting our whole heart, mind, soul, and strength into our love for and relationship with Jesus Christ.

When we fulfill these responsibilities, we are in the process of being made whole and complete.

Today’s Challenge

Take time today to examine your responsibilities.

Are you being a godly example to those around you?

Are you loving others with the love of Christ?

Are you loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength?

If adjustments need to be made, make them.

If you are walking faithfully, continue.

God is using these responsibilities to shape you into the person He has called you to be.