Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
July 30, 2024
Galatians 5:13-26
13 You were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only don’t let this freedom be an opportunity to indulge your selfish impulses, but serve each other through love. 14 All the Law has been fulfilled in a single statement: Love your neighbor as yourself. . . 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against things like this. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the self with its passions and its desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let’s follow the Spirit. 26 Let’s not become arrogant, make each other angry, or be jealous of each other.
Good Morning! Serve each other through love.
We are one in the Spirit, and we are one in the Lord. Love your neighbor as yourself. Imagine a world where everyone puts the needs of others before themselves. By the grace of God, there would be no more war or no more pain, and peace would be achieved.
Well, let’s do that! What’s stopping us? Many people could do this as long as things were fine in their lives, but then something goes wrong or they encounter a challenge or obstacle. The bigger the problem, the more fearful they become, and survival mode kicks in.
During our challenges, we need to help one another unconditionally and graciously accept help, but we only see our own needs. Think back to the toilet paper hoarding during the pandemic. What if you had purchased a large supply of toilet paper and then shared it with your neighbors so the needs of all would be met?
It is good to be prepared, but how much is enough? Remember the story of the manna in the wilderness. The Israelites were told to pick up enough for one day because the Lord would provide an adequate supply each day. Of course, this requires trust that God will do as promised. Hmmm! There is that trust word again. Let's hold on to this trust in God's provision, knowing He will always provide for our needs.
Loving God, Thank you for creating us. How many times do we doubt and struggle with trusting You? You gracefully allow us to see the errors of our ways and welcome us back when we are ready to come home. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Trust in the true freedom of living with Jesus Christ.
Remember, the God who loves you is worthy of your trust! Pastor Liz
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