Tuesday, January 19.

Once we have received Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, we are clean in His eyes. But that doesn’t mean we will never sin again (John 13:9-10). As we live in this world, we’ll continue to exhibit some fleshly patterns—at times thinking wrong thoughts, making hurtful comments, having inappropriate attitudes, and behaving foolishly. That’s why continual cleansing from sin is important.  

James gives us a process by which we can purify our hearts. When we resist the devil, mourn for our sin, and humbly draw near to God in submission, our Father is always faithful to forgive and cleanse us. Confession and repentance are like a spiritual shower that washes away the filth of sin so we can be clean and renewed. 

Ephesians 5:25-26 speaks of cleansing the church “by the washing of water with the word.” Scripture acts like a sharp sword that convicts us, reveals our hidden sins, and teaches how to live in a manner pleasing to the Lord. 

Let’s follow James’s advice today by submitting to God and renewing our minds with His truth. I pray that we can perceive and understand the Lord’s ways, and be confident of our salvation and eternal security despite our failures. 

Memory verse: 1 John 1:9.

“Seek God’s ways in all you do and he will show you the path to take.” Proverbs 3:6.

“God is our Guide”

JANUARY 18, 2021 BY AMOS MCCARTHY (EDIT)

Monday, January 18.

Have you ever encountered a rule that seemed confusing or unnecessary? Often in situations like those, what we lack is context, a deeper understanding. Sometimes the Lord’s wisdom can feel frustrating or confusing, too. But chances are, we simply need more insight and time. That’s why a regular discipline of reading and meditating on Scripture is so essential. Alongside prayer and consistent worship, the ongoing intake of God’s Word is the foundation of our growth in Christ.

We need time to get to the point of understanding what it means to be free in Christ while simultaneously submitting to Him. Becoming spiritually mature is a lifelong process, and there are no shortcuts. Wherever you are in your faith journey, remember there is still room to grow in Christlikeness. And that requires both intention and attention, as you take steps each day to seek Him. The Lord knows just what you need to keep moving. All you have to do is ask.

Our understanding of freedom in Jesus grows over time. In your own journey, which moments taught you the most? What does it mean to “take care” with regard to your liberty in Christ, as Paul puts it (1 Corinthians 8:9)?

Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 8:9.

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” Psalm 32:8

Tuesday, December 5.

We are commanded to persevere in prayer, and Scripture assures us God will answer. And while it may at times seem as if He’s ignoring us, that is not the case. Our heavenly Father, who loves us perfectly and knows all things fully, will certainly provide what is best when we ask Him. Oftentimes, unanswered prayer is not about God’s unwillingness to respond but has to do with requests made with wrong motives or limited perspective. We should keep three things in mind:   

First, we must make wise requests. When we ask according to God’s will, we have confidence that He’ll answer our requests (1 John 5:15-16). The purpose of prayer is not to manipulate God but to submit ourselves to His desires. 

Second, we should examine our motives. When we request something for purely selfish reasons without regard to God’s desires, we should not expect Him to answer (James 4:3).

Third, we are to trust God’s perspective. Man sees glimpses only of the immediate future, but God can see everything at once. He’s not slow about answering our petitions, because His timing is perfect (2 Peter 3:8-9). 

Never give up on prayer, but as you present your requests, ask the Lord to reveal if you’re hindering His answer in some way. Remember, prayer is about His will, not ours.

Memory Verse: James 4:3.

“To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Martin Luther

Tuesday, December 1.

People go to great lengths to ensure that their property and wealth are bequeathed according to their wishes. But there is a much more valuable gift we can give others, “the wisdom that leads to salvation” (2 Timothy 3:15).

Our most vital asset is the knowledge we’ve accumulated about our faith, especially the body of biblical truth regarding salvation. Although personal faith cannot be given to someone else, we can inform others about Jesus’ redeeming work on the cross. And we can also model a life that is committed to Him.  

However, before we can pass down the principles of faith to others, biblical salvation must be a reality in our own life. Many people pick and choose religious philosophies to guide their life, but self-serving religion can never save. Only those whose faith is based on scriptural truth can face the end of life with confidence about eternal security. That’s because they know God’s Son died on the cross to pay the penalty for their sins. 

Have you trusted Jesus as your personal Savior? Do you want to die confident and hopeful? The greatest legacy we can leave is not money or belongings but the truth that changes lives. Begin today to influence future generations by bringing them the good news. 

Memory verse: 2 Timothy 3:15.

“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.” Mother Teresa