Elders' Daily Devotions https://www.gcrva.org Daily devotions from the elders at Grace Church Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:27:30 -0400 http://churchplantmedia.com/ For You Have Created All Things https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/for-you-have-created-all-things https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/for-you-have-created-all-things#comments Fri, 24 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/for-you-have-created-all-things
“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you have created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.” Rev 4:11
This devotion is intended especially for the children in our church family.
When I was a child, my brothers and I liked to make things. My dad set up a small work bench in our basement and we built all kinds of stuff. We had a small scroll saw and a book of little wood projects. We would use carbon paper to trace the plans on to small scraps of wood, cut, glue, and nail them together, and then paint them. We loved to paint, and painted mostly ourselves and then some on the wood. We made all kinds of crafts and a huge mess at the same time. It was a blast! I still have a chisel mark in my thumb and it reminds me of those work shop days. Parents, don’t let your children use a chisel.
My small friends in our church, do you like making things, too? How about coloring or gluing, or drawing? Are you musical and play an instrument? How about Legos or blocks? My brothers loved these too. Do you like to read? Not me and brothers, but many of you do. Do you like to garden and work outside? I think sand castles and wood forts are very cool as well, but not mud pies. Do you like to cook? My brothers and I liked to eat, but not cook. There are so many ways that we can be creative.
Did you know, that every time you do some type of creative activity, you in some small way, are reflecting a fundamental aspect of who God is - God as Creator? “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Gen 1:1). God created the heavens and the earth and everything in it out of nothing. That’s a lot of stuff to make and he didn’t need a single chisel! Genesis also says that God created different things for six days in a row, and after each day God said that what he created was “good.” It was good because it came from him and he is good. Have you ever made something and then said, wow, that is so cool? God has a lot of those moments in his creating. Read Genesis 1 and 2 with your parents to check it out.
God created the world, and you and me, so that we might glorify Him which in part means to make much of Him. “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power”. So, when you show off your creativity, it is a good thing to think about God as your creator and to thank Him. And after you are done with your activity, if you made a mess, clean it up. This pleases your parents and God, too.
Prayer: Our heavenly Father, thank you for creating this world and for creating us. Thank you for giving us so many ways that we can reflect your creativity as we make and do things. Today, help us to give thanks for everything that happens and especially for you. Amen
]]>
“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you have created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.” Rev 4:11
This devotion is intended especially for the children in our church family.
When I was a child, my brothers and I liked to make things. My dad set up a small work bench in our basement and we built all kinds of stuff. We had a small scroll saw and a book of little wood projects. We would use carbon paper to trace the plans on to small scraps of wood, cut, glue, and nail them together, and then paint them. We loved to paint, and painted mostly ourselves and then some on the wood. We made all kinds of crafts and a huge mess at the same time. It was a blast! I still have a chisel mark in my thumb and it reminds me of those work shop days. Parents, don’t let your children use a chisel.
My small friends in our church, do you like making things, too? How about coloring or gluing, or drawing? Are you musical and play an instrument? How about Legos or blocks? My brothers loved these too. Do you like to read? Not me and brothers, but many of you do. Do you like to garden and work outside? I think sand castles and wood forts are very cool as well, but not mud pies. Do you like to cook? My brothers and I liked to eat, but not cook. There are so many ways that we can be creative.
Did you know, that every time you do some type of creative activity, you in some small way, are reflecting a fundamental aspect of who God is - God as Creator? “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” (Gen 1:1). God created the heavens and the earth and everything in it out of nothing. That’s a lot of stuff to make and he didn’t need a single chisel! Genesis also says that God created different things for six days in a row, and after each day God said that what he created was “good.” It was good because it came from him and he is good. Have you ever made something and then said, wow, that is so cool? God has a lot of those moments in his creating. Read Genesis 1 and 2 with your parents to check it out.
God created the world, and you and me, so that we might glorify Him which in part means to make much of Him. “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power”. So, when you show off your creativity, it is a good thing to think about God as your creator and to thank Him. And after you are done with your activity, if you made a mess, clean it up. This pleases your parents and God, too.
Prayer: Our heavenly Father, thank you for creating this world and for creating us. Thank you for giving us so many ways that we can reflect your creativity as we make and do things. Today, help us to give thanks for everything that happens and especially for you. Amen
]]> The Mind of Christ https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/the-mind-of-christ---his-meekness https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/the-mind-of-christ---his-meekness#comments Mon, 20 Apr 2020 05:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/the-mind-of-christ---his-meekness “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 2:5 NKJV)"

"I am meek and lowly in heart." — Matthew 11:29.

We’ve all probably heard or read something about others who have great minds.  But in great minds, there should a beautiful blending of majesty and humility, magnanimity and lowliness. We should note that the mightiest and holiest of all Beings that ever lived in our world — was the meekest of all. The Ancient of Days — was as the "infant of days." When Christ came to earth He heard melody in the lisping of an infant's voice, or in an outcast's tears! Is it any wonder that an innocent lamb was His emblem, or that the anointing Spirit came down upon Him in the form of the gentle dove? He, being the Creator, had the wealth of worlds at His feet. He could summon the hosts of heaven to come to His aid with just one spoken word if He chose to do so. But all the pageantry of the world, all its dreams of carnal glory held for Him — not an ounce of fascination. You may recall when Satan, the Great Tempter, showed Him a wide scene of "splendid misery,” from a mountain-top, that He spurned both the thought and the adversary away! John and James in their haste would have been delighted to call down fire from heaven on a Samaritan village; He rebukes them for the vengeful suggestion! Peter, on the night of the betrayal, cuts off the ear of an assassin; the intended Victim, again, only challenges His disciple, and heals His enemy!

As He was arraigned before Pilate's judgment-seat, notice how meekly He bears numerous and nameless wrongs and indignities! Suspended on the cross — the cursing and denunciations of the multitude are feverishly rising around Him — but He hears as though He heard them not; they extract no angry look, no bitter word — "Behold the Lamb of God!" Do we need to wonder that "meekness" and "poverty of spirit" should stand foremost in His own cluster of beatitudes? Should we, also, wonder that He should select this among all His other qualities for the particular study and imitation of His disciples, "Learn from Me, for I am meek;" or that the apostle Paul should exhort us "by the meekness and gentleness of Christ! (2 Cor. 10:1)"

How different the world's maxims — and His! The world's maxim: "Repay the offenses, vindicate your honor!" His maxim: "Overcome evil with good!" The world's maxim: "Only let it be when for your faults you are buffeted, that you take it patiently." His maxim: "When you do well and suffer for it, you take it patiently; this is acceptable with God." (1 Pet. 2:20.)

Friends, strive to obtain, like your adorable Lord, this "ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which, in the sight of God, is of great price." Be "clothed" with gentleness and humility. Follow not the world's fleeting shadows, which mock you as you grasp them. If always aspiring, ever soaring on the wing, you are more than likely to become discontented, proud, and selfish! In whatever position of life God has placed you, be satisfied. What! Are you ambitious to be on a pinnacle of the temple, to be in a higher place in the Church, or in the world? Satan might hurl you down! "Be not high-minded — but fear." And with respect to others, honor their gifts; contemplate their excellences — only to imitate them. Speak kindly, act gently. "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited."

Be assured, there is no happiness that will be equal to that enjoyed by the "meek Christian." He has within him or her a perpetual inner sunshine, a perennial well-spring of peace. Never ruffled and fretted by real or imaginary injuries, he or she puts the best construction on motives and actions, and by a gentle answer to unmerited reproach — often disarms man's anger.

Prayer: O Heavenly Father, teach me by Your Holy Spirit and Your Word to imitate the meekness of Christ in my thoughts and actions. May I have the mind of Christ in those situations where I want to exalt myself? In Jesus Name. Amen.

 

 

]]> “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 2:5 NKJV)"

"I am meek and lowly in heart." — Matthew 11:29.

We’ve all probably heard or read something about others who have great minds.  But in great minds, there should a beautiful blending of majesty and humility, magnanimity and lowliness. We should note that the mightiest and holiest of all Beings that ever lived in our world — was the meekest of all. The Ancient of Days — was as the "infant of days." When Christ came to earth He heard melody in the lisping of an infant's voice, or in an outcast's tears! Is it any wonder that an innocent lamb was His emblem, or that the anointing Spirit came down upon Him in the form of the gentle dove? He, being the Creator, had the wealth of worlds at His feet. He could summon the hosts of heaven to come to His aid with just one spoken word if He chose to do so. But all the pageantry of the world, all its dreams of carnal glory held for Him — not an ounce of fascination. You may recall when Satan, the Great Tempter, showed Him a wide scene of "splendid misery,” from a mountain-top, that He spurned both the thought and the adversary away! John and James in their haste would have been delighted to call down fire from heaven on a Samaritan village; He rebukes them for the vengeful suggestion! Peter, on the night of the betrayal, cuts off the ear of an assassin; the intended Victim, again, only challenges His disciple, and heals His enemy!

As He was arraigned before Pilate's judgment-seat, notice how meekly He bears numerous and nameless wrongs and indignities! Suspended on the cross — the cursing and denunciations of the multitude are feverishly rising around Him — but He hears as though He heard them not; they extract no angry look, no bitter word — "Behold the Lamb of God!" Do we need to wonder that "meekness" and "poverty of spirit" should stand foremost in His own cluster of beatitudes? Should we, also, wonder that He should select this among all His other qualities for the particular study and imitation of His disciples, "Learn from Me, for I am meek;" or that the apostle Paul should exhort us "by the meekness and gentleness of Christ! (2 Cor. 10:1)"

How different the world's maxims — and His! The world's maxim: "Repay the offenses, vindicate your honor!" His maxim: "Overcome evil with good!" The world's maxim: "Only let it be when for your faults you are buffeted, that you take it patiently." His maxim: "When you do well and suffer for it, you take it patiently; this is acceptable with God." (1 Pet. 2:20.)

Friends, strive to obtain, like your adorable Lord, this "ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which, in the sight of God, is of great price." Be "clothed" with gentleness and humility. Follow not the world's fleeting shadows, which mock you as you grasp them. If always aspiring, ever soaring on the wing, you are more than likely to become discontented, proud, and selfish! In whatever position of life God has placed you, be satisfied. What! Are you ambitious to be on a pinnacle of the temple, to be in a higher place in the Church, or in the world? Satan might hurl you down! "Be not high-minded — but fear." And with respect to others, honor their gifts; contemplate their excellences — only to imitate them. Speak kindly, act gently. "Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited."

Be assured, there is no happiness that will be equal to that enjoyed by the "meek Christian." He has within him or her a perpetual inner sunshine, a perennial well-spring of peace. Never ruffled and fretted by real or imaginary injuries, he or she puts the best construction on motives and actions, and by a gentle answer to unmerited reproach — often disarms man's anger.

Prayer: O Heavenly Father, teach me by Your Holy Spirit and Your Word to imitate the meekness of Christ in my thoughts and actions. May I have the mind of Christ in those situations where I want to exalt myself? In Jesus Name. Amen.

 

 

]]> Musings from a Retired Neurologist https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/musings-from-a-retired-neurologist https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/musings-from-a-retired-neurologist#comments Sat, 18 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/musings-from-a-retired-neurologist
From Gordon Burch: Musings from a retired neurologist
  • Psalm 139:14
  • Phil. 4:6
  • II Timothy 2:15
  • Hebrews 12:28
A few thoughts from neuroscience in the matter of dealing with anxiety, fear, and despondency.
A few essential truths should be stated up front. We are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of our Creator. Study of the Word, prayer, and worship are foundational in living to the glory of God. Finally we are called to be anxious for nothing.
The seat of our emotions is found in the lambic system, including structures with odd names like amygdala, fornix, and hippocampus. The same anatomy is the substrate of memory. When we face situations that are anxiety and fear provoking, like the current pandemic, the lambic system goes into overdrive leading to unpleasant negative emotions and associated physical effects. The latter include rapid breathing, increased heart rate, sweating, and disruption of memory. These are defensive responses for our protection but can be disruptive when persisting.
When other regions of the brain are activated (such as the prefrontal cortex) the activity in the lambic system is mitigated and this reduces negative emotionality. Motor and mental exercise (walking, gentle aerobics, doing puzzles, and even housecleaning) can have the same dampening effect on the lambic system. Singing and listening to music (right temporal brain) can allay anxiety. Meditation, especially on the Scriptures, and reading fiction and poetry to engage the imagination are also very helpful in resetting the lambic system. (I am not sure where imagination is located in the brain).
I hope these musings have been helpful. God be praised that we are so wonderfully made.
]]>
From Gordon Burch: Musings from a retired neurologist
  • Psalm 139:14
  • Phil. 4:6
  • II Timothy 2:15
  • Hebrews 12:28
A few thoughts from neuroscience in the matter of dealing with anxiety, fear, and despondency.
A few essential truths should be stated up front. We are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of our Creator. Study of the Word, prayer, and worship are foundational in living to the glory of God. Finally we are called to be anxious for nothing.
The seat of our emotions is found in the lambic system, including structures with odd names like amygdala, fornix, and hippocampus. The same anatomy is the substrate of memory. When we face situations that are anxiety and fear provoking, like the current pandemic, the lambic system goes into overdrive leading to unpleasant negative emotions and associated physical effects. The latter include rapid breathing, increased heart rate, sweating, and disruption of memory. These are defensive responses for our protection but can be disruptive when persisting.
When other regions of the brain are activated (such as the prefrontal cortex) the activity in the lambic system is mitigated and this reduces negative emotionality. Motor and mental exercise (walking, gentle aerobics, doing puzzles, and even housecleaning) can have the same dampening effect on the lambic system. Singing and listening to music (right temporal brain) can allay anxiety. Meditation, especially on the Scriptures, and reading fiction and poetry to engage the imagination are also very helpful in resetting the lambic system. (I am not sure where imagination is located in the brain).
I hope these musings have been helpful. God be praised that we are so wonderfully made.
]]> Giving Thanks Always https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/giving-thanks-always https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/giving-thanks-always#comments Fri, 17 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/giving-thanks-always

Ephesians 5: 19 - 20

Today, I am especially thankful to the Lord. Towards the end of Ephesians, Paul instructs the church saying “addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” In keeping with these instructions, here are a few verses from the Psalms that speak of giving thanks.

Psalm 44: 7-8 “But you have saved us from our foes and have put to shame those who hate us. In God we have boasted continually, and we will give thanks to your name forever.

Psalm 100: 4 “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him, bless his name!”

Psalm 107:8-9 “Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.”

Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.”

Psalm 147:7-8,11b “Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre! He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rain for the earth; he makes grass grow on the hills...the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.”

When we give thanks using these Psalms, we do so as Christians thinking of Jesus. Jesus is the one who has saved us from our greatest foe the devil and our own sin. Because of the cross, we can enter the gates of heaven forever to praise our God. Jesus has given us bread and drink for our soul that fully satisfies. In Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, we see the fullness of the goodness of God. Finally, because of Jesus, we have everything we need for this life and the next, and in him, we have come to revere and love God.

It is right and good to give thanks to our God, especially focusing on our Lord Jesus Christ. May a day of thanksgiving be kind to your soul.

Prayer: Our heavenly Father, we thank you for being our Father and for loving us and saving us in your son, Jesus. Thank you for sending Jesus to die for us. Thank you for sending the Spirit to cause us to believe and to grow in love for you. Thank you for this day and for all that you have made and are doing in our lives. Today, help us to give thanks for everything that happens and especially for you.

Amen

]]>

Ephesians 5: 19 - 20

Today, I am especially thankful to the Lord. Towards the end of Ephesians, Paul instructs the church saying “addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” In keeping with these instructions, here are a few verses from the Psalms that speak of giving thanks.

Psalm 44: 7-8 “But you have saved us from our foes and have put to shame those who hate us. In God we have boasted continually, and we will give thanks to your name forever.

Psalm 100: 4 “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him, bless his name!”

Psalm 107:8-9 “Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.”

Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.”

Psalm 147:7-8,11b “Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre! He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rain for the earth; he makes grass grow on the hills...the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.”

When we give thanks using these Psalms, we do so as Christians thinking of Jesus. Jesus is the one who has saved us from our greatest foe the devil and our own sin. Because of the cross, we can enter the gates of heaven forever to praise our God. Jesus has given us bread and drink for our soul that fully satisfies. In Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, we see the fullness of the goodness of God. Finally, because of Jesus, we have everything we need for this life and the next, and in him, we have come to revere and love God.

It is right and good to give thanks to our God, especially focusing on our Lord Jesus Christ. May a day of thanksgiving be kind to your soul.

Prayer: Our heavenly Father, we thank you for being our Father and for loving us and saving us in your son, Jesus. Thank you for sending Jesus to die for us. Thank you for sending the Spirit to cause us to believe and to grow in love for you. Thank you for this day and for all that you have made and are doing in our lives. Today, help us to give thanks for everything that happens and especially for you.

Amen

]]> Evening Devotion https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/evening-devotion https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/evening-devotion#comments Thu, 16 Apr 2020 18:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/evening-devotion
How easily we establish great goals for ourselves.
We seek accomplishment, satisfaction, recognition and comfort.
We ought not.
Let’s see what the Scriptures have to say about this.
Matthew 10:39  “Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”
Matthew 11:29  “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 “ But godliness with contentment is great gain ... but if we have food and clothing,  we will be content with that.”
Philippians  4:11 “ ... for I  have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”       
Whatever the circumstances, and to be sure they are discouraging at the present, none the less we are called to be content.  I believe that these present difficult times are also a call to repentance. How foolish we can be in making expansive and selfish plans for the future, not knowing what the next day holds. It is pretty clear now how uncertain the future is but for the mercy and grace of God. We ought to place each days plans and desires before His Throne of Mercy and find our comfort in Him.
Prayer: Forgive us Father. In Your mercy and the power of the Spirit, grant us deep joy, contentment and complete satisfaction in you. We praise and thank you for each day you grant us. In Jesus name.
]]>
How easily we establish great goals for ourselves.
We seek accomplishment, satisfaction, recognition and comfort.
We ought not.
Let’s see what the Scriptures have to say about this.
Matthew 10:39  “Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”
Matthew 11:29  “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 “ But godliness with contentment is great gain ... but if we have food and clothing,  we will be content with that.”
Philippians  4:11 “ ... for I  have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”       
Whatever the circumstances, and to be sure they are discouraging at the present, none the less we are called to be content.  I believe that these present difficult times are also a call to repentance. How foolish we can be in making expansive and selfish plans for the future, not knowing what the next day holds. It is pretty clear now how uncertain the future is but for the mercy and grace of God. We ought to place each days plans and desires before His Throne of Mercy and find our comfort in Him.
Prayer: Forgive us Father. In Your mercy and the power of the Spirit, grant us deep joy, contentment and complete satisfaction in you. We praise and thank you for each day you grant us. In Jesus name.
]]> John 20:16 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/john-2016 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/john-2016#comments Thu, 16 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/john-2016 John 20:16     

At this time of pandemic and crisis, most to the world around us is moving in slow motion or actually shuttered. The news gives us an endless array of statistics which have little meaning . Discussion and commentary  about unanswerable questions is frustrating. The new daily routines are surreal. It all so impersonal. 

In the midst of it all how wonderful to be reminded that we have a very personal God who invites us into a deeply personal relationship. This begins with our redemption and salvation in Christ on the Cross where we enter into His suffering and resurrection  and new life.  Words are important and uttering “I believe” strikes to the core, the difference between life and death . We now cry out “Abba  Father”  and know that He calls us by name. As she approaches the empty tomb  the resurrected Jesus said to her “ Mary”.

In Isaiah 43:1  we read  “…I have called you by your name, you are mine” . In Isaiah 49:16 “I have engraved you on the palms of my hands…“.   Further affirmation of the intensely personal character of our salvation is found in John 10:3&4 “ …the sheep hear His voice , and He calls His own sheep by name…“.  In II Timothy 2:19    “The Lord knows those that are His…“

And so the world around us, especially in crisis, seems very impersonal but our relationship with God in Christ is deeply personal.  “Abba Father”.  Jesus said to her, “Mary”.

Prayer: Thank you Father that you know me by name and I am yours. In Jesus name.

]]> John 20:16     

At this time of pandemic and crisis, most to the world around us is moving in slow motion or actually shuttered. The news gives us an endless array of statistics which have little meaning . Discussion and commentary  about unanswerable questions is frustrating. The new daily routines are surreal. It all so impersonal. 

In the midst of it all how wonderful to be reminded that we have a very personal God who invites us into a deeply personal relationship. This begins with our redemption and salvation in Christ on the Cross where we enter into His suffering and resurrection  and new life.  Words are important and uttering “I believe” strikes to the core, the difference between life and death . We now cry out “Abba  Father”  and know that He calls us by name. As she approaches the empty tomb  the resurrected Jesus said to her “ Mary”.

In Isaiah 43:1  we read  “…I have called you by your name, you are mine” . In Isaiah 49:16 “I have engraved you on the palms of my hands…“.   Further affirmation of the intensely personal character of our salvation is found in John 10:3&4 “ …the sheep hear His voice , and He calls His own sheep by name…“.  In II Timothy 2:19    “The Lord knows those that are His…“

And so the world around us, especially in crisis, seems very impersonal but our relationship with God in Christ is deeply personal.  “Abba Father”.  Jesus said to her, “Mary”.

Prayer: Thank you Father that you know me by name and I am yours. In Jesus name.

]]> Things Left Undone https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/things-left-undone https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/things-left-undone#comments Wed, 15 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/things-left-undone Genesis 39:19-20; 45:15-16

Throughout history, when a new king or queen comes to power, one of the first things they do is take retribution against those who have wronged them.  They no longer have to be diplomatic and often swiftly and brutally destroy their old enemies.  Even King David told Solomon to take out his old enemies once he was gone.  There are numerous stories of British and European royals wiping out people and entire families they hated when they came to power.

Now consider the story of Joseph.  When his brothers came and, not knowing who he was, asked him for help, he had mercy on them.  He did test them to see if they had truly repented, and his testing revealed how much they regretted what they had done.  Joseph was very wise in what he did, but he was also very wise in what he did not do.  And the things he did not do were crucial in showing the Egyptian people and the world he would impact the true heart of the man Pharaoh had named as ruler of all Egypt.

Based on the narrative in Genesis, it seems likely, although it can’t be stated conclusively, that Pharaoh and his court were not necessarily familiar with the full story of Joseph’s tragic family circumstance.  I venture to say this because Pharaoh was pleased when it was told to him that Joseph’s brothers had come.  Pharaoh showed great courtesy to them and told Joseph to bring the entire clan to Egypt.  If Joseph had made an issue about the mistreatment he had received from his brothers it seems likely that Pharaoh would have been suspicious and guarded about welcoming such a group into his kingdom.  Therefore, it does seem reasonable to think that Joseph was discreet about his past and what his brothers had done to him and did not take opportunity to air his grievances even after he became ruler of Egypt.  But for self-exoneration, it would have served no purpose and likely could have complicated the situation with his brothers when they did show up.  And there is another significant thing that Joseph did not do when he became ruler.

Earlier in the narrative Joseph had become a trusted slave in Potiphar’s house.  His master’s wife was attracted to him, so she made a pass, but he said no and ran from her.  She was so insulted that she accused him of trying to force himself on her.  The master was enraged at Joseph because of his wife’s accusation, and Joseph ended up in prison.  God then used that situation to bring Joseph into Pharaoh’s presence.

After becoming the de facto ruler of all Egypt, Joseph married the daughter of a high-level priest and had a family, and the story progresses to his saving not only Israel, but the world around Egypt as well (Gen. 41:57). But the thing missing in this story is Joseph taking revenge on Potiphar and his wife after he became ruler of Egypt.  It is conspicuous by its absence.  Not taking revenge would have been looked on with amazement by royalty.  They knew why he had been imprisoned.  Such benevolence would be an astounding thing by someone in the ruling class.  And this truly amazing story of Joseph, the new wise and benevolent ruler, would spread across the land, and the Egyptian people would see that Joseph was a ruler like no other (Gen. 41:46).

God mightily used Joseph not only because of the wonderful things he did, but also because of the wonderful and gracious things he did not do.  What a picture of Christ!  Think of all the people Jesus could have taken revenge on after his resurrection, after all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to him (Matt 28:18). Instead, he shows mercy and invites his enemies to come to him and tells them he will save them from being condemned for all the things they did to him.  He even tells his disciples that his message of “repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem” (Luke 24:47). Our Lord’s focus was redemption of sinners and glorifying God.

We should consider how we will glorify God by not doing certain things.  At times, we feel we have every right to air our grievances in a public way or to complain to family members, friends, neighbors and coworkers about how unjustly we have been treated at some point.  But think of Joseph: If he had complained or taken retribution for all the wrongs done against him by family and the people he worked for, how that would have so limited, and possibly even ruined, his story and his ability to foreshadow Christ and ultimately to glorify God.

Brothers and sisters, Christ has given us the spirit of forgiveness and peace.  May we be careful to glorify Him in all that we do, and not do.

Prayer:  Father grant me grace to see how I can glorify you in all the things I do, and how I can likewise bring glory to your name by refraining from doing things that ultimately serve only my purposes.  In Jesus name, Amen.

]]> Genesis 39:19-20; 45:15-16

Throughout history, when a new king or queen comes to power, one of the first things they do is take retribution against those who have wronged them.  They no longer have to be diplomatic and often swiftly and brutally destroy their old enemies.  Even King David told Solomon to take out his old enemies once he was gone.  There are numerous stories of British and European royals wiping out people and entire families they hated when they came to power.

Now consider the story of Joseph.  When his brothers came and, not knowing who he was, asked him for help, he had mercy on them.  He did test them to see if they had truly repented, and his testing revealed how much they regretted what they had done.  Joseph was very wise in what he did, but he was also very wise in what he did not do.  And the things he did not do were crucial in showing the Egyptian people and the world he would impact the true heart of the man Pharaoh had named as ruler of all Egypt.

Based on the narrative in Genesis, it seems likely, although it can’t be stated conclusively, that Pharaoh and his court were not necessarily familiar with the full story of Joseph’s tragic family circumstance.  I venture to say this because Pharaoh was pleased when it was told to him that Joseph’s brothers had come.  Pharaoh showed great courtesy to them and told Joseph to bring the entire clan to Egypt.  If Joseph had made an issue about the mistreatment he had received from his brothers it seems likely that Pharaoh would have been suspicious and guarded about welcoming such a group into his kingdom.  Therefore, it does seem reasonable to think that Joseph was discreet about his past and what his brothers had done to him and did not take opportunity to air his grievances even after he became ruler of Egypt.  But for self-exoneration, it would have served no purpose and likely could have complicated the situation with his brothers when they did show up.  And there is another significant thing that Joseph did not do when he became ruler.

Earlier in the narrative Joseph had become a trusted slave in Potiphar’s house.  His master’s wife was attracted to him, so she made a pass, but he said no and ran from her.  She was so insulted that she accused him of trying to force himself on her.  The master was enraged at Joseph because of his wife’s accusation, and Joseph ended up in prison.  God then used that situation to bring Joseph into Pharaoh’s presence.

After becoming the de facto ruler of all Egypt, Joseph married the daughter of a high-level priest and had a family, and the story progresses to his saving not only Israel, but the world around Egypt as well (Gen. 41:57). But the thing missing in this story is Joseph taking revenge on Potiphar and his wife after he became ruler of Egypt.  It is conspicuous by its absence.  Not taking revenge would have been looked on with amazement by royalty.  They knew why he had been imprisoned.  Such benevolence would be an astounding thing by someone in the ruling class.  And this truly amazing story of Joseph, the new wise and benevolent ruler, would spread across the land, and the Egyptian people would see that Joseph was a ruler like no other (Gen. 41:46).

God mightily used Joseph not only because of the wonderful things he did, but also because of the wonderful and gracious things he did not do.  What a picture of Christ!  Think of all the people Jesus could have taken revenge on after his resurrection, after all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to him (Matt 28:18). Instead, he shows mercy and invites his enemies to come to him and tells them he will save them from being condemned for all the things they did to him.  He even tells his disciples that his message of “repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem” (Luke 24:47). Our Lord’s focus was redemption of sinners and glorifying God.

We should consider how we will glorify God by not doing certain things.  At times, we feel we have every right to air our grievances in a public way or to complain to family members, friends, neighbors and coworkers about how unjustly we have been treated at some point.  But think of Joseph: If he had complained or taken retribution for all the wrongs done against him by family and the people he worked for, how that would have so limited, and possibly even ruined, his story and his ability to foreshadow Christ and ultimately to glorify God.

Brothers and sisters, Christ has given us the spirit of forgiveness and peace.  May we be careful to glorify Him in all that we do, and not do.

Prayer:  Father grant me grace to see how I can glorify you in all the things I do, and how I can likewise bring glory to your name by refraining from doing things that ultimately serve only my purposes.  In Jesus name, Amen.

]]> Our Calling https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/our-callings https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/our-callings#comments Tue, 14 Apr 2020 17:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/our-callings 1Corinthians 1:1-9, “…called by the will of God… called to be saints… called into fellowship…”

In the beginning of his first letter to the Corinthians the Apostle Paul makes several references to callings. He introduces himself as having been “called by the will of God to be an apostle” (v1). He describes the believers he’s writing to as those, “called to be saints” (v2), and also, “called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (V9).

When we consider these three callings together we end up with a helpful summary of God’s desires and purposes for us as Christians: he has called us to serve, to be holy, and to be in fellowship with our Lord Jesus. Let’s think about each of those callings.

First, “called by the will of God to be an apostle”. Paul was of course called in a very dramatic fashion to the specific work of an apostle. While you and I have not received the same apostolic call, we have each been called to serve God’s will in our fashion (Rom 12:3-8). We have all been called by God to serve. 

Second, “called to be saints”, that is, set apart and sanctified in Christ Jesus. As Christians we have called to be holy; to put off sin and walk in the new way of repentance and righteousness. 

And third, “you were called into the fellowship of his Son”. Not only has God called us all to serve him, and to be holy, but he has called every Christian into a real and experiential relationship with Jesus Christ, by faith. Each of us are called to know Christ personally, to speak to him in prayer, to listen to him speak in his word, and to cling to him in faith. 

It’s worth noting that none of those callings are at all hindered by our inability to gather together as a congregation right now. Yes we can’t meet at the church building for services, we can’t meet for prayer or for bible study, we can’t even get within six feet of one another! That has a major impact on our fellowship and our life together as a congregation. 

But does it stop us from serving, as we’ve been called? No. There are still plenty of ways to serve the will of God by praying for one another, reaching out to encourage one another, discipling our children, extending kindness and mercy to our neighbors, taking every opportunity to bear witness to the truth of the gospel, etc. Has there ever been a time when a simple phone call or text message can be more of an act of service than right now?

Does it stop us from being holy, as we’ve been called? No. In fact, the sort of stripped down and simplified life we’re living at the moment is a rare opportunity to consider our lives and devote the time and energy necessary to put off sinful habits. Have we been ignoring certain ungodly patterns of thought and word and deed because we’re too distracted with the busyness of life? Well God, in his providence, has slowed down all of our lives . Has there ever been a time more conducive to thinking about how we live, and making changes? 

Does it stop us from having fellowship with our Lord Jesus? No. Once again, our circumstances now might be unusually helpful in that regard. Our Lord waits for us to approach him in faith, but far too often we’ve rushed through our days with barely a thought of him. We’ve raced from responsibility to responsibility and forgotten that he even exists. Well, he’s given us a unique opportunity to stop racing and start remembering him more often. To seek him in prayer and in his word, and to come to him again and again in faith throughout the day. He has shut us up in our homes, but by his Spirit he is there with us - we are quarantined with him!

Friends, in this unique time when life is so unusual, remember your calling. Remember that God has called you to serve him. Remember that he’s called you to be holy. Remember that he’s called you to fellowship with Jesus Christ. No stay-at-home order can hinder us from his will. In fact, it might even help to us to answer his call. 

]]> 1Corinthians 1:1-9, “…called by the will of God… called to be saints… called into fellowship…”

In the beginning of his first letter to the Corinthians the Apostle Paul makes several references to callings. He introduces himself as having been “called by the will of God to be an apostle” (v1). He describes the believers he’s writing to as those, “called to be saints” (v2), and also, “called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (V9).

When we consider these three callings together we end up with a helpful summary of God’s desires and purposes for us as Christians: he has called us to serve, to be holy, and to be in fellowship with our Lord Jesus. Let’s think about each of those callings.

First, “called by the will of God to be an apostle”. Paul was of course called in a very dramatic fashion to the specific work of an apostle. While you and I have not received the same apostolic call, we have each been called to serve God’s will in our fashion (Rom 12:3-8). We have all been called by God to serve. 

Second, “called to be saints”, that is, set apart and sanctified in Christ Jesus. As Christians we have called to be holy; to put off sin and walk in the new way of repentance and righteousness. 

And third, “you were called into the fellowship of his Son”. Not only has God called us all to serve him, and to be holy, but he has called every Christian into a real and experiential relationship with Jesus Christ, by faith. Each of us are called to know Christ personally, to speak to him in prayer, to listen to him speak in his word, and to cling to him in faith. 

It’s worth noting that none of those callings are at all hindered by our inability to gather together as a congregation right now. Yes we can’t meet at the church building for services, we can’t meet for prayer or for bible study, we can’t even get within six feet of one another! That has a major impact on our fellowship and our life together as a congregation. 

But does it stop us from serving, as we’ve been called? No. There are still plenty of ways to serve the will of God by praying for one another, reaching out to encourage one another, discipling our children, extending kindness and mercy to our neighbors, taking every opportunity to bear witness to the truth of the gospel, etc. Has there ever been a time when a simple phone call or text message can be more of an act of service than right now?

Does it stop us from being holy, as we’ve been called? No. In fact, the sort of stripped down and simplified life we’re living at the moment is a rare opportunity to consider our lives and devote the time and energy necessary to put off sinful habits. Have we been ignoring certain ungodly patterns of thought and word and deed because we’re too distracted with the busyness of life? Well God, in his providence, has slowed down all of our lives . Has there ever been a time more conducive to thinking about how we live, and making changes? 

Does it stop us from having fellowship with our Lord Jesus? No. Once again, our circumstances now might be unusually helpful in that regard. Our Lord waits for us to approach him in faith, but far too often we’ve rushed through our days with barely a thought of him. We’ve raced from responsibility to responsibility and forgotten that he even exists. Well, he’s given us a unique opportunity to stop racing and start remembering him more often. To seek him in prayer and in his word, and to come to him again and again in faith throughout the day. He has shut us up in our homes, but by his Spirit he is there with us - we are quarantined with him!

Friends, in this unique time when life is so unusual, remember your calling. Remember that God has called you to serve him. Remember that he’s called you to be holy. Remember that he’s called you to fellowship with Jesus Christ. No stay-at-home order can hinder us from his will. In fact, it might even help to us to answer his call. 

]]> Pleasures Forevermore https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/pleasures-forevermore https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/pleasures-forevermore#comments Tue, 14 Apr 2020 13:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/pleasures-forevermore  Psalm 16:11 -   

   You make known to me the path of life;    

   in your presence there is fullness of joy;    

   at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. 

Every week, I find myself thinking about the state of our world in the light of this pandemic and every week as I sit down to write, it is those thoughts that come out and pave the way for the devotions I share. This week, I confess, I am tired of thinking about it all. I feel mentally worn down. I know exactly what has taken place and where this feeling comes from, I am no stranger to this and I am sure you can relate. It can happen often, our minds become overwhelmed with numerous different thoughts. Thoughts that busy our minds for a period of time and wear us down. When this happens, we become tired and worn out, understandably so, we are away from our place of rest, we are away from Jesus Christ. 

I want to encourage you to be aware of this feeling and when you notice it, to take comfort. God, by his grace, has saved us and made us new. We, now opposed to the world, are like two opposite facing magnets and although the edges may touch from time to time, we cannot be joined together. It is the same for us believers, we can no longer be joined to anything we are so opposed to. When we find our minds controlled by certain thoughts or limited by the multitude, we will eventually reach a point to where we begin to notice an uncomfortableness that begins to well up in us, maybe it’s only faint at first, an unidentified longing we have for something we can’t put our finger on. What we have noticed at this point is the grace of God. Our minds have strayed like sheep and we hear the great shepherd’s voice. Rejoice that you are his sheep. Rejoice because this is assurance. 

What we all need right now is Christ. Look at this morning’s passage. 

Psalm 16:11 -   

    You make known to me the path of life;    

    in your presence there is fullness of joy;    

    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. 

Now please, read it again and again. Think about it, meditate on it. There is so much in this verse to behold that my only comments are this: we already know that Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Therefore, it is Christ that is pleasures forevermore. It is Christ that is in the presence of God right now. It is Christ that is the fullness of joy. It is Christ that is the path of life God has made known. It is Christ! It is Christ! It is all Christ! 

Brothers and sisters, whether we are mentally stable or weak, physically hurting or well, young or old, at home or away, what we need today and every day is Christ. We need Jesus Christ. 

Prayer: Father in heaven, thank you for your word and the assurance it brings us, please draw us now closer to your right hand and closer to the fullness of joy, alongside the pleasures evermore, alongside Jesus Christ. We know what we ask of you now is aligned with your will and we boldly ask that you would make it so. Please, give us more of Christ today and every day. 

]]>  Psalm 16:11 -   

   You make known to me the path of life;    

   in your presence there is fullness of joy;    

   at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. 

Every week, I find myself thinking about the state of our world in the light of this pandemic and every week as I sit down to write, it is those thoughts that come out and pave the way for the devotions I share. This week, I confess, I am tired of thinking about it all. I feel mentally worn down. I know exactly what has taken place and where this feeling comes from, I am no stranger to this and I am sure you can relate. It can happen often, our minds become overwhelmed with numerous different thoughts. Thoughts that busy our minds for a period of time and wear us down. When this happens, we become tired and worn out, understandably so, we are away from our place of rest, we are away from Jesus Christ. 

I want to encourage you to be aware of this feeling and when you notice it, to take comfort. God, by his grace, has saved us and made us new. We, now opposed to the world, are like two opposite facing magnets and although the edges may touch from time to time, we cannot be joined together. It is the same for us believers, we can no longer be joined to anything we are so opposed to. When we find our minds controlled by certain thoughts or limited by the multitude, we will eventually reach a point to where we begin to notice an uncomfortableness that begins to well up in us, maybe it’s only faint at first, an unidentified longing we have for something we can’t put our finger on. What we have noticed at this point is the grace of God. Our minds have strayed like sheep and we hear the great shepherd’s voice. Rejoice that you are his sheep. Rejoice because this is assurance. 

What we all need right now is Christ. Look at this morning’s passage. 

Psalm 16:11 -   

    You make known to me the path of life;    

    in your presence there is fullness of joy;    

    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. 

Now please, read it again and again. Think about it, meditate on it. There is so much in this verse to behold that my only comments are this: we already know that Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Therefore, it is Christ that is pleasures forevermore. It is Christ that is in the presence of God right now. It is Christ that is the fullness of joy. It is Christ that is the path of life God has made known. It is Christ! It is Christ! It is all Christ! 

Brothers and sisters, whether we are mentally stable or weak, physically hurting or well, young or old, at home or away, what we need today and every day is Christ. We need Jesus Christ. 

Prayer: Father in heaven, thank you for your word and the assurance it brings us, please draw us now closer to your right hand and closer to the fullness of joy, alongside the pleasures evermore, alongside Jesus Christ. We know what we ask of you now is aligned with your will and we boldly ask that you would make it so. Please, give us more of Christ today and every day. 

]]> In Him (Christ) Pt. 2 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/in-him--christ----part-2 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/in-him--christ----part-2#comments Mon, 13 Apr 2020 17:00:00 -0400 https://www.gcrva.org/elders-daily-devotions/post/in-him--christ----part-2 “In Him (Christ)” Text - 1 Cor. 15-20-23“

For just as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Cor. 15:22 CSB)”

Earlier today we considered some aspects of being in Christ and we will now consider some other thoughts and implications for that tremendous blessing.

“But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, so by a man has come the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. (1 Cor. 15:20-23)” We noted that Paul probably had in mind the third day of creation in Gen. 1:11-13 for his background to this chapter.

With Christ being our first fruit what are some of the benefits that He has given to us since He has made us alive? Here are a few gleanings from Romans chapter 8:

  • We are no longer under any condemnation (v.1).
  • We are set free from the law of sin and death (v.2).
  • We can fulfill the law as we walk according to the Spirit (we never had the ability to do this before) (v.4).
  • We now have life and peace instead of death (v.6).
  • Our mind is no longer hostile toward God (v.7).
  • We can please God (v.8).
  • We belong to Him (v.9).
  • We are led by the Spirit (v.14).
  • We are sons of God (v.14).
  • We have received a spirit of adoption as sons, by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” (v.15).
  • The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God (v.16).
  • The sufferings of this present time cannot compare to the glory that will be revealed to us (v.18).
  • Our bodies will soon be completely redeemed (v.23).
  • We have hope (v.24).
  • We have a glorious purpose—to become conformed to the image of His Son (v. 29).
  • We can have no charges brought against us, because we have already been justified by the ultimate Judge (v.33).
  • We cannot be condemned, because Jesus died, was raised, and intercedes for us (v.34).
  • We will NEVER be separated from the love of Christ (v.35)! (which includes: tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, pandemic happenings, peril, and others)
  • Death will not separate us (v. 38).

Though we will all have strong temptations from within and without, we will have overwhelming grace to douse the fiery darts of Satan because we are in Christ (1 Cor. 10:13).

So then, how shall we live in light of our being in Christ?

Would you make Colossians 2:8-15 your prayer of both thanksgiving and petition today?

Colossians 2:8–15

Prayer:

[8] See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. [9] For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, [10] and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. [11] In himalso you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, [12] having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with himthrough faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. [13] And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, [14] by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. [15] He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. (ESV). In Jesus Name. Amen.

 

 

 

 

 

]]> “In Him (Christ)” Text - 1 Cor. 15-20-23“

For just as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. (1 Cor. 15:22 CSB)”

Earlier today we considered some aspects of being in Christ and we will now consider some other thoughts and implications for that tremendous blessing.

“But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, so by a man has come the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. (1 Cor. 15:20-23)” We noted that Paul probably had in mind the third day of creation in Gen. 1:11-13 for his background to this chapter.

With Christ being our first fruit what are some of the benefits that He has given to us since He has made us alive? Here are a few gleanings from Romans chapter 8:

  • We are no longer under any condemnation (v.1).
  • We are set free from the law of sin and death (v.2).
  • We can fulfill the law as we walk according to the Spirit (we never had the ability to do this before) (v.4).
  • We now have life and peace instead of death (v.6).
  • Our mind is no longer hostile toward God (v.7).
  • We can please God (v.8).
  • We belong to Him (v.9).
  • We are led by the Spirit (v.14).
  • We are sons of God (v.14).
  • We have received a spirit of adoption as sons, by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” (v.15).
  • The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God (v.16).
  • The sufferings of this present time cannot compare to the glory that will be revealed to us (v.18).
  • Our bodies will soon be completely redeemed (v.23).
  • We have hope (v.24).
  • We have a glorious purpose—to become conformed to the image of His Son (v. 29).
  • We can have no charges brought against us, because we have already been justified by the ultimate Judge (v.33).
  • We cannot be condemned, because Jesus died, was raised, and intercedes for us (v.34).
  • We will NEVER be separated from the love of Christ (v.35)! (which includes: tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, pandemic happenings, peril, and others)
  • Death will not separate us (v. 38).

Though we will all have strong temptations from within and without, we will have overwhelming grace to douse the fiery darts of Satan because we are in Christ (1 Cor. 10:13).

So then, how shall we live in light of our being in Christ?

Would you make Colossians 2:8-15 your prayer of both thanksgiving and petition today?

Colossians 2:8–15

Prayer:

[8] See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. [9] For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, [10] and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. [11] In himalso you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, [12] having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with himthrough faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead. [13] And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, [14] by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. [15] He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. (ESV). In Jesus Name. Amen.

 

 

 

 

 

]]>