Devotion for Tuesday, December 17, 2019

“For I, on my part, though absent in body but present in spirit, have
already judged him who has so committed this, as though I were present.  In the name of our Lord Jesus, when you are
assembled, and I with you in spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus” (1
Corinthians 5:3-4).

The judgement here is not to
eternal condemnation, but a determination that demands an action.  A person who perpetrates evil must not be
allowed to remain amongst the faithful lest they be led astray.  The congregation must always be diligent
against those who would lead some astray by behavior that harms and does not
build up.  We all are called to
faithfulness in the Lord.

Lord, teach me where I am to stand firm and confront what is evil.  Help me to never do this in anger or with
retribution, but do teach me to stand firm. 
You know all that is needed and You allow circumstances such that we
together may learn and grow.  Hold me
fast to the truth of Your Word that I may now and always abide in the life You
have given me and do so with grace and mercy.

Lord Jesus, You turned over the
tables of the money changers.  You stood
the good ground many times.  Help me to
never lose my temper or combat with anger, but to be able to graciously stand
firm against the onslaughts of the wicked one. 
Lead me in the way of faithfulness that I may now and always live a life
that is godly according to Your Word, standing firm against those who do
otherwise.  Amen.