Devotion for Thursday, October 21, 2021

“This is a plain indication of God’s righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering” (2 Thessalonians 1:5).

This is not suffering for suffering’s sake but being persecuted for holding fast to the truth that has been revealed to you.  Meditate upon this, for there is a difference.  The suffering of persecution is for the sake of the kingdom.  It is a matter of seeing this current state of rebellion for what it is and living in reconciliation with Christ instead.  You will live what you believe.

Lord, teach me how to be consistent in the way of truth.  I am not, and I know this.  You have come that I may have life and have it abundantly.  This world seeks to take all that I have and consume it.  You take all the is temporary and replace it with all that is good and eternal.  Lead me, O Lord, in the way of everlasting truth so that I may be guided by You alone in and through all things.

Come, Holy Spirit, and grant that I would have discernment in these things.  You have taken me to the deeper places where I see beyond this age and its shallow offerings.  Guide me to stay on course and finish the race You have set before me despite the spiritual rebellion that is all around me.  Through Your leading, I will become what has been intended that I be.  Lead me and teach me to follow.  Amen.