Devotion for Thursday, August 1, 2024

“A disciple is not above the teacher, nor a slave above the master; it is enough for the disciple to be like the teacher, and the slave like the master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household!” (Matthew 10:24-24)

Jesus was accused of being a chief of demons.  The wicked demonize.  We are called to love.  Accusations abound in wickedness.  If they accused Jesus, they will accuse you when You follow Jesus.  Do not be surprised.  Love and hatred are opposites.  Seek love and watch grace kill hatred.  We are slaves to the Master.  Yes, follow Jesus and see Him alone as the Master of your life.

Lord, in this hyper-hating culture, there are so many who are accusing others of all kinds of things.  I too feel accused.  Let me walk through the cloud of this hatred without receiving its infection.  I do not know all that will come; but You do Jesus.  You have told us that there is purpose in everything.  Guide me to live into the purpose You have promised so that I may now and always humbly abide in Your goodness and mercy.

Come, Holy Spirit, and guide me to stand firm when the accuser comes.  Let me not be surprised at its coming, even though sad about whom it comes from, so that I may not compromise the simple truth that You are God, and I am, for now, but a slave.  As I walk faithfully this day, lead me to live in the promise of salvation I have by grace.  Amen.