Devotion for Monday, August 21, 2023

“Then another angel, a third one, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is mixed in full strength in the cup of His anger; and he will be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb” (Revelation 14:10-11).

Listen to the word.  “And receives” is what is written.  Will the Lord hold us accountable for what we have no choice over?  Of course not.  But do watch what you worship.  Do not worship anyone but the Lord.  Do not look to other things to satisfy the longing that your living in the truth of the Lord will fill.  Only in the One who made you will you find the longing that is in your heart.

Lord, there are so many idols in our world.  There are so many things that people lift up and worship.  I too have joined them.  Let me not be caught either with the mark, or in worship of anyone other than You.  You alone are to be worshiped.  Guide me out of the mess of this world so that I may clearly see the truth of the pagan practices that have been always going on around me and in this age.

Lord Jesus, You called out those who pretended to be religious, but had hearts of stone.  Lead me in the way of life You intend so that I do not worship the false idols of this age, nor willingly take their mark.  Guide me, Lord, so that I may humbly walk with You my Savior and learn from You as You teach me day by day.  You know what the obstacles are.  Lead me through them so that I may remain faithful to You.  Amen.