You Only Live Once (YOLO)!

You only live once (YOLO) is a phrase that has been around since the early 90s and gained popularity again around 2011 by the rapper Drake. The phrase encourages individuals to do what they feel and live life to the fullest. It has inspired various merchandise, including T-shirts, sweaters, cups, and more. People often shouted “YOLO” whenever they were trying to seize their moment, no matter how impulsive. This reminds me of the Latin phrase “Carpe Diem,” which means seize the day.

While YOLO is true in its essence, it doesn’t mean disregarding purpose. During the 2020-21 year, the YOLO movement experienced a resurgence, leading to the creation of the “YOLO Economy.” People during this time reevaluated their lives, quit jobs, and pursued passions projects, realizing that they only lived once. However, it’s important to remember that while we live on this earth in this body only once, our spirit lives on. The YOLO movement overlooks the fact that we have life because of the sacrifice made by someone else. Paul speaks about this in scripture:

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (NIV) 14 For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

There’s nothing wrong with pursuing your dreams or passion projects. However, it’s important to remember that these pursuits are a result of the sacrifice made by Lord Jesus for us. Living a life driven solely by the “YOLO” mentality implies that you’re only living for yourself and your desires. Proverbs 3:16 (NIV) advises us to “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” The Heavenly Father is not restrictive when it comes to pursuing your dreams or passions, or both. What He emphasizes is that we should commit ourselves to Him, not to our pursuits and passions.

In conclusion, living your life solely for yourself and your desires leads to only temporary fulfillment. We have a Savior who sacrificed Himself on the cross so that we could live. Yes, you only have one life to live! Yes, you should live it to the fullest. And yes, pursue your passions and dreams that please the Heavenly Father. However, always remember that your life has a purpose given by the Heavenly Father. Therefore, don’t forget who sacrificed for you and commit your plans to Him. Don’t live a “YOLO” life without purpose, as your soul depends on it.

Next Step:

How does the understanding of Christ’s love motivate you to make different choices in your daily life? In what specific ways can you intentionally serve and reflect HIS love in your life?

God bless you, God keep you. God loves you and I love you too!