DEVOTIONS
Monday: Former US Secretary of State, Daniel Webster, was asked “What is the greatest thought that can occupy a man’s mind?” Webster replied, “His accountability to God”. When we think of the truth behind coming before God and answering for every word, thought, deed with which we have participated, it often scares the mess out of us. Every word? Every thought? Every deed? Shew. This truth, however, shouldn’t make us live in fear, but instead should cause us to live intentionally and faithfully. This Sunday we will discuss how being held accountable for our lives is truly a truth that should set us free. Father, guide my words, thoughts, deeds. Help me live for You. In Jesus, amen.
Tuesday: This past Sundays lesson on the freeing truth of our being saved by grace, flows beautifully and connects nicely with the freeing truth of our being held accountable. Ephesians 2:8-9 and Titus 3:3-7 both share how we are saved by grace instead of by our works. This is a good thing! What we need to wrap our mind around is the fact that even though we are not saved by our works, we will be judged by our works (or lack thereof). Check out 2 Corinthians 5:10 and Romans 14:10-12. Both of these passages affirm how we will all come before God and be judged for how we lived. All of us. Everyone. On the day of Judgement, our life book will be opened, read, evaluated. Some will receive wrath while others receive life. Lord, help me live for eternal life. In Jesus, amen.
Wednesday: Yesterday we looked up and read Ephesians 2:8-9 and Titus 3:3-7. In Ephesians we see how faith is necessary. If we keep reading in Titus we see in verse 8 how we must devote ourselves to doing what is good. While we aren’t save by good works, our works are proof of the gladness and joy we have in our salvation. Check out what James says about this in James 2:14-24. Father, help my words, thoughts, deeds be proof of Your saving grace. Help me live a life where folks see and hear You by the way I live, love, serve. In Jesus, amen.
Thursday: We’re loved. We’re forgiven. We’re saved by grace. All these truths should guide our way of living so that we have no fear for the day we come before Jesus and are judged by how we lived, loved, served. It’s time we realize how important the way we serve, give, love truly is. Our response of faith, obedience and good works in no way earns our salvation. They are, however, a confirmation that our love and commitment are genuine and true. God, thank You for salvation! Thank You for allowing me to live, love, serve. In Jesus, amen.
Friday: As a follower of Jesus, we ain’t called to sit comfortably and wait. We are called to action. God won’t force us to accept His saving grace. God won’t force us to obey His commands. God won’t force us to read our bibles, say our prayers, join together in worship. HOWEVER…these items join together to make us stronger and grow us closer together in Him. God has great things in store for His faithful followers. Let’s not get lazy or comfortable. Let’s keep going to the end. Father, thank You for allowing us to be used. In Jesus name, amen.
Saturday: Tomorrows lesson is full of tons of Scripture. It’s needed. Close to half of the sermon will be different passages. We might be able to argue opinions and traditions. We can’t argue Gods truth. His truth sets us free! Lord, as we prepare our hearts today for worshipping as One Body tomorrow, open us up
that we may grow together and hold each other accountable. In Jesus, amen.