Devotion for Thursday, June 20, 2024
![](https://i0.wp.com/www.lutherancore.website/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/lightstock_465390_small_kimberly_smith.jpg?resize=1000%2C500&ssl=1)
“Now a large herd of swine was feeding at some distance from them. The demons begged him, “If you cast us out, send us into the herd of swine” (Matthew 8:30).
All of us who have life want to hold onto it. Even those who take their lives are desperate for real life. The wicked are no different. They think life in a herd of swine is better than no life. The Lord and giver of life has offered for us to live life as it is meant to be lived. Why not come into that life and live the way You have been created to live? This is the offer of salvation.
Lord, You know how much I like the idea at times, but often, I get wrapped up in my present life and I would rather have momentary pleasures. Take me away from the place where I would settle to living in a herd of swine. I know that in saying this, it is a metaphor, but how often do I choose to live in just this way? Open my eyes to see the better offer that I may live as You have created me to live.
Lord Jesus, You Who are the author and finisher of my faith, guide me in Your goodness so that I may humbly come into the life for which You have prepared the way. Open my eyes, and help me to take those feeble steps which You must complete so that I come into that life and live according to the Father’s will. Teach me what I need to learn and help me to always hear Your voice above the noise of this world. Amen.