Devotion for Monday, August 19, 2024
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“Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he” (Matthew 11:11).
It says, “Among those born of woman.” There is an interesting thought, for Jesus also said, “You must be born of water and the Spirit.” Every Christian is born from above. Do you see that we are called from a purely physical life into a life that is both physical and spiritual. True greatness is not earned but given by the Lord. We are here for His purpose and not our own. Do not be guided by this world alone, but by the Lord alone who is the Creator of all worlds. It is not a matter of greatest or least, but about what the Lord is doing.
Gracious Lord, You have appointed all things to be in their place. I am born physically amongst fallen humanity, but You have called me to journey with You on the path of righteousness. Lead me according to the Father’s will, in the power of the Holy Spirit, to be whom You have appointed me to be. Guide me each day in the way of faith and help me to simply keep my eyes upon You.
Lord Jesus, I need Your help because I live in a world that is constantly seeking its own desires. I am encouraged to seek greatness. What use is that? Help me instead to take all that You have given me and humbly go where You send me. What I become is Your business. That I seek to become what You are making of me is mine and is only done with Your help. Lord, be the One who leads me to overcome those things which would get in the way. Amen.