For we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about our trouble in [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor], how we were utterly weighed down, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life [itself]. Indeed, we felt within ourselves that we had received the sentence of death [and were convinced that we would die, but this happened] so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead. He rescued us from so great a threat of death, and will continue to rescue us. On Him we have set our hope. And He will again rescue us [from danger and draw us near], while you join in helping us by your prayers. Then thanks will be given by many persons on our behalf for the gracious gift [of deliverance] granted to us through the prayers of many [believers]. 2 Corinthians 1:8-11 AMP
All these died in faith [guided and sustained by it], without receiving the [tangible fulfillment of God’s] promises, only having seen (anticipated) them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. Now those who say such things make it clear that they are looking for a country of their own. And if they had been thinking of that country from which they departed [as their true home], they would have had [a continuing] opportunity to return. But the truth is that they were longing for a better country, that is, a heavenly one. For that reason God is not ashamed [of them or] to be called their God [even to be surnamed their God—the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob]; for He has prepared a city for them. Hebrews 11:13-16 AMP
Where is your hope? What are you truly confident in? What have you set your faith upon? Have any of those (hope, confidence, faith) been severely tested in you? Do you know how deep your relationship with Him actually goes? Are you seeking His ‘country’ or are you thinking by your own power you can create a country of your dreams? How much of your ‘work’ is by your own passions, desires, and goals? How much of your life and work is by His Spirit?
There will come a time for everyone when our earthly path is done. What will you have to give to Him at that time that will make it through the fire of His judgement?
According to the [remarkable] grace of God which was given to me [to prepare me for my task], like a skillful master builder I laid a foundation, and now another is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds on it, for no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is [already] laid, which is Jesus Christ. But if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will be clearly shown [for what it is]; for the day [of judgment] will disclose it, because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality and character and worth of each person’s work. If any person’s work which he has built [on this foundation, that is, any outcome of his effort] remains [and survives this test], he will receive a reward. But if any person’s work is burned up [by the test], he will suffer the loss [of his reward]; yet he himself will be saved, but only as [one who has barely escaped] through fire. 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 AMP
Have you entertained ideas like.. “I’ll do what I want, because ‘I’m saved’ and I’ll let God sort out all the rest when it comes to my life.” Really? Is that really love? Is that your life or His? Your final time is coming faster than you think or know. If we remain here on earth and we’ve truly “Been crucified with Him”, then our life is His and our life should be directed to His instructions and call for us personally. Paul said it this way…
For to me, to live is Christ [He is my source of joy, my reason to live] and to die is gain [for I will be with Him in eternity]. If, however, it is to be life here and I am to go on living, this will mean useful and productive service for me; so I do not know which to choose [if I am given that choice]. But I am hard-pressed between the two. I have the desire to leave [this world] and be with Christ, for that is far, far better; Philippians 1:21-23 AMP
This is the TC2 life.
Time is short. Get your priorities with God figured out. GO to Him in your secret place.