“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? unless indeed you are disqualified.” – 2 Corinthians 13:5 (NKJV)
Welcome to the 37th weekly devotional recap of the year. This week, we learnt about standing firm, building strong convictions, and exercising ourselves unto godliness.
We began Monday with a call to gear up, as the enemy seeks to destroy us and attack our faith (1 Peter 5:8). Thankfully, we have a living intercessor (Luke 22:31) and ways to overcome. We must trust in Jesus’ power to save (Hebrews 7:25) and remember we never face trials alone (Matthew 28:20). Let’s encourage one another (Hebrews 10:24), knowing that suffering is temporary, and all things work together for our good (Romans 8:28).
On Tuesday, we were encouraged to stand firm as people who belong to Christ. We have received a new life and thus a new identity. As such, we must no longer live for ourselves but as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), and not conform to this world (Romans 12:2). Jesus, our perfect example, always set His mind on things above (Colossians 3:1-2) prioritising God’s ways above any other contrary opinion (Matthew 4:1-11). To be better disciples, we must take root in the truth so that we are not tossed by every wind of doctrine (Ephesians 4:14).
Wednesday’s devotional taught us to exercise ourselves unto godliness. The battle against sin is common to every believer. When we sin, we experience guilt, disappointment, and searing shame (Genesis 3:10). To overcome sin, we must first be convinced that God has saved us through Jesus’ sacrifice (Romans 5:8-9). Exercising unto godliness, like physical exercise, requires consistency. Even if you fall, get back up (Proverbs 24:16). To not fulfil the desires of the flesh, we must walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16).
On Thursday, we learnt about loyalty to Christ and His kingdom. Jesus made it clear to us through the scriptures that in the matters of the kingdom there are no middle grounds; you are either for or against the truth. True loyalty cannot be hidden; it is a visible and active demonstration. We can demonstrate our loyalty by faithfulness to God and people, obedience to the Word (John 14:15) and being steadfast even in the face of trials (Daniel 3:16-18).
We ended the week on Friday with an emphasis to constantly examine ourselves, stand firm on God’s truth, and be a light that sets the standard for others (Matthew 5:14). In a world swayed by diverse opinions, building strong convictions would require us to have a revelation of God’s word and allow it to transform our hearts (Ephesians 1:17), standing boldly in these convictions (Acts 4:12-13).
Dear Believer, gear up and stand firm in your belief in Christ Jesus. Also, be determined to proclaim your convictions wherever loudly you go.
Have a great Weekend!
Bible Reading Recap