Devotion
A Sincere Relationship
Chipo Biti
We need to be sincere in our hearts when it comes to our relationship with God. There is no need for us to feel as if we need to pretend in God's presence. God knows us more than we know ourselves. When we commune with Him and act like we are without any worries or thoughts, we are only being hypocrites. Our hypocrisy will actually prevent us from totally connecting with God. God pushes us to come to him wholeheartedly, ready to fellowship with him without any restrictions or doubts.
In all honesty, God is the only one we can express the depths of our hearts to in confidence. When we tell people, there is a high chance that we will be let down. But when we tell God, there is a definite possibility that we will receive peace, assurance, and the wisdom to handle the situation.
Our hearts have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus, making us free from the power of sin. This allows us to come to God with a clear conscience, free of guilt and shame. We have been purified by Christ. This is what this bible verse, Hebrews 10:22-23, is trying to tell us. We have been assured of our purification and there is nothing that should convince us otherwise.
As Christians, we really have become new creations in Christ. We no longer define ourselves by our sinful nature. We identify ourselves in Jesus Christ.
We are to hold on to the faith with all our heart, mind and soul. There are many factors in the world that will try discourage us from having faith in God. We cannot afford to pay attention to any of them. This is why we need to remain rooted in God's word.
Prayer
God's Word will keep us firmly rooted in faith, always reminding us of the goodness of God and the glory to come.
Devotion
Give Good Example
Frances Taylor
If we ever needed a reminder of how important it is to practice what we preach, this is it. Not only are we encouraged to help others, but we are also warned about giving bad example or leading others, particularly children, away from the Lord.
I have spoken to many people who say that they became a Christian because of the example of people in their family, friends or strangers whose joy is so great they want a part of it. I also know people who have turned away from the faith they once had because they consider those who proclaim themselves to be Christian are hypocrites. Most people don't start out wanting to be Christians because of doctrine. They are influenced one way or another by people. Are you someone whose life exhibits the joy of knowing Jesus and his saving power? Am I? Do your actions give testimony to your beliefs? A person can go to church each week, Bible classes during the week and give every impression of being a devout follower of ...
Morning Prayer
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Inspiration
There is nothing at all – nothing on the earth and nothing in the spiritual realms – that can separate us from the love of Christ. No matter what any person or principality tries to do in our lives, they will never be able to quash the love Christ has for us. The love God has for us is eternal – it is here to stay for good.
Prayer
Dear God, I thank you for the love that you have for me. Thank you, Lord, that this love will never leave me and it will never forsake me. No matter what anyone tries, or whatever may come my way, Lord, I thank you that your love will always be with me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.
Inspiration
As Christians, we know that we find peace in God. And today, we’re reminded that He promises peace to His people. But we have to do our part, which is listening. It’s when we turn away from wisdom and pursue foolish and selfish endeavors that peace eludes us. But when we turn our ears to His wisdom, He leads us on the path to peace.
Prayer
God, in You I have received peace that passes understanding. Speak Your wisdom to me, and teach me to not be distracted by my own foolish ambitions. Give me ears to hear You so that I may remain close to You and move in Your peace wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
