Devotion for Saturday, January 18, 2020

“And his interests are divided. The woman who is unmarried, and the
virgin, is concerned about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in
body and spirit; but one who is married is concerned about the things of the
world, how she may please her husband. This I say for your own benefit; not to
put a restraint upon you, but to promote what is appropriate and to secure
undistracted devotion to the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:34-35).

The community in Corinth was
amidst upheaval because of the impropriety of one of its members. Paul’s
direction here is not a law, but a way of thinking through these things. He is telling
us to keep our eyes upon the prize. The way to the prize is the upward call of
Jesus. Be led to become like Christ in whatever way that will take you and let
nothing get in the way.

Lord, You know all things and You know all that is needed. Grant us eyes
to see and ears to hear all that is right and true. No matter to what You call
me, help me to go there. Grant that I would see through the distractions to
focus upon all that is right and good. You have come for our benefit. You have
come that we might live into the purpose for why we exist. Be the One who
guides and let it be no one and nothing else.                                

 Lord Jesus, You know the struggles of this world. You know how hard it is to see through all of the distractions that come each day. Guide me this day, Lord Jesus, that I would see clearly as I walk each step of faith. Help me now and always to see that in You alone is the hope of all. In and through all circumstances, help me to learn how to be faithful that I would live according to the Father’s will. Amen.