Devotion 

To Live In Christ

Frances Taylor 

We know that we who have been baptized have been baptized into his death so that we might rise with him. The words may be a little different from those of Paul, but the message is the same, if we are willing to accept it. By accepting our baptism, we are choosing to live a life of faith, remembering the sacrifice of Jesus. It's a willingness to die to self, not easy. Of course, for Paul the dangers were more immediate, and for many Christians today, that hasn't changed. But some have said that it would be easier to die once for our faith than to have to die every day. I hope I never have to face that possibility, but having just written that, I think I do have to face that and we all do. We all will need to face death one day, whether or not it comes suddenly or after a lingering illness. We will have to face the reality of death. Will we be at peace, even joyous that we will be with our God? Or will we be fearful, our faith tested for a final ...

Morning Prayer 

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

Inspiration 

We grow in the grace and the knowledge of Jesus Christ through studying His word and through teachings we receive from more mature believers – believers who have grown in the understanding of Christ before us. The more we grow in the knowledge of Christ, the better our understanding of grace and the Christian life becomes. You should always have a desire to grow in the knowledge of Christ; ignorance is never bliss.

Prayer 

Dear God, I ask that as I study your word and listen to teachings about Jesus Christ, may you give me the wisdom to understand fully. I am aware that there are many false teachings. Father, I ask that you help me discern the truth from the lies. May I remain in your truth and your truth alone, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Night Prayer 

Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.

Inspiration 

God has given us His word not only to instruct us but to guard our hearts and minds against the things to come. Someday God will redeem His fallen creation and establish a new heaven and new earth. But until then, lawlessness will only increase, so we must hold dearly to the truth and knowledge that we have been given so that we don’t get toppled and swept away by the ways of the world.

Prayer 

Lord, I am thankful that You have given me hope. As I look at the evil, selfishness, and lawlessness that drive our world, I long for Your kingdom to fully manifest. And until that happens, I cling to You and ask that You would grow me daily in Your word so that I may grow strong roots in You and remain steadfast no matter what comes. In Jesus’ name, amen.