Devotion for Sunday, December 11, 2022

“[F]orsaking the right way, they have gone astray, having followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness” (2 Peter 2:15)

Scripture is not talking about those whom we would call purely wicked (are not all sinners?), but about those who follow their own lusts.  We think in terms of people doing what is acceptable in society, but a generation ago, many of the things we now call acceptable would have been considered outrageous.  Let us seek the will of our Father in heaven and live in the truth of the Gospel.

Lord, You know how slippery the slope is that spirals downward.  You have seen it over and over throughout the ages.  Lead me, O Lord, in the way of life You have established from the beginning.  Help me to not take any of the false steps that spiral downward.  Guide me in Your goodness to live according to the principles of love and service You have established.  Lead me to live life as it is meant to be lived.

Help me, dear Savior, to look to You in all circumstances.  Guide me in Your goodness to know that in You is hope.  You have come so that I may have life and have it abundantly.  Lead me in that life to see that in You alone can I overcome what this world throws at me.  In You I can be conformed to the perfect image.  In You I have salvation.  In You I have hope.  Help me look to You always.  Amen.