Devotion for Thursday, July 29, 2021

“Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.  Husbands, love your wives and do not be embittered against them” (Colossians 3:18-19).

Be different.  The world treats others as if the one who is making the decision is the center of all things.  Is it any wonder there is contention in marriage?  If both will be like Christ and think of the other as more important than themself, the relationship will work.  Beyond this, why does Scripture give this admonition so often?  Is it perhaps that there are greater lessons for those who are the bride of Christ?

Lord, teach me all that I need to know.  Guide me in the way You know I need to go and then help me to move in that direction.  In and through all things, place in my heart the right attitude so that I would love others in the way You love them.  Move me away from being self-centered and demanding, and more like You, caring for others, their well-being, and encouraging them in their salvation.

Lord Jesus, You are the groom and we are the bride.  You set the example by dying for us.  In all of the relationships that I am in, help me to have the appropriate boundaries so that I may live according to Your goodness.  Guide me in the power of Your Holy Spirit this day so that I may now and always live into the life to which You have called me, knowing that this is the eternal life for which You are preparing me. Amen.