Devotion for Friday, January 22, 2021

“Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “Uncircumcision” by the so-called “Circumcision,” which is performed in the flesh by human hands – remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world” (Ephesians 2:11-12).

Un-mixing what is physical from what is spiritual is important.  Yes, circumcision is a sign of the covenant, but it is not the covenant.  The covenant tells us that God is God and He will care for His people.  As many as believe, He will care for them by giving grace.  Christ has made this possible.  We did not create the ability to circumcise the heart, Jesus has done this by grace and we live this truth in faith.

Lord, I am both a physical and spiritual being.  You have made me what I am.  I do not understand all that this means, but You do.  Lead me through what I do not know by Your grace so that when that day comes that I stand before You I will know You even as I have always been known by You.  Lead me ever deeper into this faith You have given me so that I may grow in the likeness of Christ my Savior.

Lord Jesus, the One who has come to prepare the way, lead me today.  Through You, death has been stripped of its sting.  By Your grace, the heart of every believer has been circumcised.  The covenant is between me and Thee.  Let the truth of the relationship You have made possible ring in my circumcised heart now and forever.  Teach me to love as You love and live life as You have created me to live it.  Amen.