Devotion for Friday, March 14, 2025

“And when the harvest time approached, he sent his slaves to the vine-growers to receive his fruit.  And the vine-growers took his slaves and beat one, killed another, and stoned another” (Matthew 21:34-35).

Does God have expectations of us?  We certainly have expectations of one another.  Are we not created in God’s image?  The world will seek to kill your faith.  It is not enough to just go to church regularly and remain indifferent.  What kind of life will you live?  Will you live in the hope Jesus gives, or will you mix in some other hopes promoted by this sinful world?

Lord, You know how befuddled I get with all the voices that speak in this age.  Lift me up and out so that I hear clearly Your voice of truth speaking to me.  Heal my deafness so that I hear Your call.  Those in this world would kill me when I speak truth, just as they killed You.  Help me, Lord, so that I hold fast to the truth as You send me into the pit of vipers that are in this world.  Help me to fear not and remain true to Your word.

Lord Jesus, You know all things.  You have experienced the wickedness of this world first-hand.  You knew that then, and You know that now.  Help me to live beyond what this world says and follow Your word of truth.  You know what I need.  No matter where I am or what I am doing, lead me to be faithful to all that You have called me to do.  Guide me in Your goodness and mercy to hold fast to the word You have given me.  Amen.