Devotion for Friday, January 23, 2026

“And He was saying, “That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man.  For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed the evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness.  All these evil things proceed from within and defile the man” (Mark 7:20-23).

Who knows the thoughts that really go on inside another?  We may show one thing while thinking another.  The Lord knows that we have these sin issues, and He has come to lead us in dying to sin, death, and the devil.  Wickedness is on the inside, for we think on these things which lead to our actions.  Jesus is speaking the truth and calls us out of ourselves to follow Him.

Lord, only You know the level of corruption that is in our hearts.  You have come to save us by giving us a new and clean heart.  You know the things that are hidden in our minds.  Help the faithful so that we do not hold these things in, but one, reject them, and two, protect ourselves from letting them come back in.  Lord, save us from the insanity of this world which is constantly hitting us with these very things and calling them good.

Lord Jesus, You have come so that I may have true life and have it abundantly.  Guide me in my thought-life to be guarded against all of the evil that is in this world.  Forgive me and lead me in repentance in order that I may have a new heart which does not harbor wickedness but rejoices for Your goodness and mercy all the days of my life.  Lead me, O Lord, so that I may learn from You how to live a life of faith and love.  Amen.