Devotion for Saturday, November 27, 2021

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor” (1 Timothy 1:12-13).

It does not matter what you were.  It matters Whose you are now.  Do you belong to yourself or to the Lord?  This is a fundamental question that must be answered if we are to be faithful.  Live the life, not the lie.  Walk with Jesus and do not pretend that you can live both in this world’s rebellion and as one who follows Jesus.  In the Lord, you will be strengthened to live by faith through this present age.

Lord, prepare me to live as You would have me live.  I have been a blasphemer and one who willingly nailed you to the cross.  Your grace is sufficient.  Guide me Lord in the way of living so that I would now and forever look to You as my rock, strength, shield, and fortress.  Bring me under the shadow of Your wing and, no matter what happens to me in this world, in You I will always be safe.

Lord Jesus, You have come to unite us with You.  Either we are, or we are not, for there is no neutral ground.  Guide me, Lord, to see that in You is all hope, not some hope, but all hope.  Lead me into the way of everlasting life in order that I may now and always abide in You knowing that You are abiding in me.  Put me into service and use me as You know I can be used for Your kingdom.  Amen.