“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1 NKJV
Welcome to the 12th devotional recap of the year. This week, we learned about sanctification and how it changes our desires and that we must not look back at our old life. We also learned about holiness and consecration.
On Monday, in our lesson ‘Sanctified’, we learnt that after salvation, we must take steps in sanctification where God takes believers on a journey of changed desires. By believing the Gospel, our old man’s sinful nature is dead, and we are no longer under the bondage of sin (Romans 6:11-14). This process is continuous and can be advanced through consistent study, prayer, fellowship, and yielding to the Holy Spirit.
Tuesday’s study focused on Holiness. We learnt that Holiness is not solely about good moral conduct, but also about being holy through God’s grace. Believers, who carry the Spirit of God, are holy, and good works are a part of this. Our belief in Jesus’ death and resurrection makes us holy through His blood (Hebrews 10:10-12, Ephesians 1:7).
On Wednesday, we learnt that by the Gospel, believers receive the Holy Spirit, birthing godly desires in them. This transformation can be dramatic or gradual, depending on the individual’s willingness to follow the Spirit’s leading. As believers, we witness this consistent transformation as we yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit, recognizing that God can change any man’s desires. Recognizing this position in Christ makes us more compassionate and enables us to spread the Gospel (Philippians 2:13).
We took our lessons further on Thursday. Living a life set apart for God’s glory is a call for believers. Apostle Paul emphasizes honouring God with your life, requiring actions, decisions, and desires to be Godward (Romans 12:1). Reflecting consecration to God involves putting Him first in pursuits, evangelism, and conduct. It is crucial to be different from the world and to avoid actions that contradict God’s Word. Therefore, take steps of devotion and consecration to God.
We wrapped up the week on Friday by considering how unhealthy Sin consciousness can hinder believers from experiencing new life and freedom from sin. Understanding the nature of sin is crucial, as it is a fallen nature. Jesus changed this by dying, buried, and resurrected, saving believers from sin (John 3:16, Romans 3:23-24). By focusing on Jesus, believers can become righteousness-conscious and fulfill our call (Hebrews 12:1-2).
Dear believer, you have been saved unto good works. The Spirit of God works in you to help you please God. God has made you holy unto Himself, He has ordained you to good works. Walk in the newness of life!
Bible Reading Plan Catchup