Devotion for Monday, December 21, 2020

“envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:21).

What are you practicing?  What guides you in this life?  Do you take to heart and practice what is good in the sight of the Lord, or practice what the world teaches?  One does not need a lesson in these things, for they are all around us.  Instead, we are to put into practice that which we know is right, good and salutary.  Begin with the Ten Commandments, not in terms of obligation, but as instruction in righteousness.

Lord, I often forget the life to which You have called me through grace.  Guide me. O Lord, that I may look to You, the author and finisher of my faith, and be guided as You will lead.  Let me not look to the world, nor live as the world, but instead look to You, the One who has already overcome the world.  You know all that is needed that I may be with You where you are.

Lord Jesus, lead me in the way of everlasting life.  I am tempted to live as the world lives.  I am tempted to abandon the way You have set before me and then excuse my behavior with cheap grace.  Guide me, O Lord, in the way that fights through all temptation and lives the kind of life that is pleasing to the Father.  Lord Jesus, You have saved me.  Please teach me how to live.  Amen.