Devotion for Sunday, August 29, 2021

“The Jews, who both killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and drove us out.  They are not pleasing to God, but hostile to all men, hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved; with the result that they always fill up the measure of their sins. But wrath has come upon them to the utmost” (1 Thessalonians 2:15-16).

Who are the Jews?  They are not a group who follow a certain ancient religion.  In this case, they go by many names, but they are the ones who want you to fit into their ideal.  They do not leave anything alone, but are constantly meddling.  Do not be a bigot, but neither tolerate the ones who are driving towards the gates of hell.  Look to the Lord and be saved.  Know the Lord and know goodness.

Lord, keep me close to You so that I would not be swayed by those who would lead me astray.  Let me not be caught up by those who demand conformity to their ideals.  Help me to remain free in You in order that I may walk with You now and forever.  The wrath of death because of sin has already been poured out.  Keep me from that wrath knowing that You have paid the price so that I may be set free from sin.

Lord Jesus, in You alone is all hope.  You came to set free as many as would believe that You have come to redeem us from sin’s recompense.  Lead me along with all who faithfully look to You that together we may be guided in Your Spirit in all goodness.  Help me to live into this life You have given me, being conformed to Your image as You make of me a child of the Heavenly Father.  Amen.