Loving Jesus Style

  Scripture: Philippians 2:12-13 (NIV) Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Devotion: The passage from Philippians 2:12-13 calls us to a profound and active engagement with our faith. It begins with an exhortation from the Apostle Paul to the believers in Philippi, urging them to continue their obedience in his absence. This call to action is not a mere suggestion but a directive to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling." Obedience, as mentioned by Paul, is a recurring theme in his letters. The Philippians were known for their steadfastness in faith and adherence to Paul's teachings. Yet, Paul emphasizes that their commitment should not waver in his absence. This notion of obedience goes beyond mere compliance; it is about a deep-ro...

Scripture: John 6:66-69 (NIV) From this time, many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. “You do not want to leave, too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” Devotion: In John 6:66-69, we encounter a poignant moment in Jesus' ministry. The passage describes a pivotal point where many of Jesus’ followers decided to abandon Him. His teachings, particularly the discourse on the Bread of Life, had become difficult for them to accept. Jesus had spoken of eating His flesh and drinking His blood, a metaphorical expression of embracing His sacrifice, which proved too challenging for many to grasp or accept. This metaphor symbolizes the need to fully accept and internalize Jesus' sacrifice for our sins, a concept that was difficult for many to understand at the time. As a result, they turned away, no longe...

Scripture: Revelation 5:11-12 (NIV) Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures, and the elders. In a loud voice, they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Devotion: In this powerful passage from Revelation 5:11-12, we witness a celestial scene of worship that transcends time and space. In his vision, the Apostle John sees and hears an innumerable host of angels surrounding the throne of God, lifting their voices in unison to proclaim the worthiness of the Lamb. This Lamb, revered and exalted in their praises, is none other than Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen Savior. The title "Lamb" is profoundly significant in Christian theology. It harkens back to the Old Testament sacrificial system, where a spotless lamb was offered as a sin offeri...

Scripture: 1 John 1:13-16 (N(V) This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. Devotion The passage from 1 John 1:13-16 declares the intimate relationship we share with God through Jesus Christ. It begins with the assurance that we, as believers, live in God and He in us, a relationship made possible by the gift of His Spirit. This indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit is a testament to our acceptance and transformation through faith in Jesus Christ. The apostle John emphasizes the certainty of this relationship by stating that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. This foundational truth is the cornerstone of our faith. We enter int...

  Scripture: Mark 8:27-29 (NIV) Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way, he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” Devotion: In Mark 8:27-29, Jesus poses a profound question to His disciples, and by extension, to each one of us: 'But what about you? Who do you say I am?' This inquiry is not merely about seeking validation or praise; it is an invitation to a deeper understanding and personal conviction of who Jesus truly is. Peter's response, 'You are the Messiah,' reveals a moment of divine revelation and faith. It signifies the acknowledgment of Jesus as the promised Savior and the recognition of His divine authority and mission. This question and Peter's answer not only beckon us to reflect on our own perception of ...

Nehemiah 9:38 to 10:39 Chapters 9 and 10 of Nehemiah present an exceptional moment in Israel's history. After a period of reflection and confession, the people of Israel make a covenant with God, reaffirming their commitment and dedication to following His commandments and decrees. This passage offers profound insights into the nature of repentance, commitment, and the collective responsibility of a faith community. Nehemiah 9:38 marks the beginning of this covenant, where the Israelites, led by their leaders, priests, and Levites, put their seal on a written agreement. This act symbolizes a collective acknowledgment of their past failures and a renewed commitment to live according to God's laws. It is a powerful reminder that true repentance involves both confession and a decisive turn towards righteousness. As we delve into chapter 10, we see the specifics of this covenant. The people pledge to adhere to various aspects of the Mosaic Law, including prohibiting interma...

Nehemiah chapter 9 is a profound and moving chapter that calls for deep reflection on God's faithfulness and our own hearts. The chapter begins with the people of Israel fasting, wearing sackcloth, and putting dust on their heads as signs of mourning and repentance. These actions were not mere rituals, but profound expressions of their deep sorrow and repentance. This united act of contrition sets the stage for a powerful prayer that recounts God’s unwavering loyalty despite Israel's recurring unfaithfulness. As spiritual leaders, the Levites lead the people in a prayer that covers the entire history of Israel, from the calling of Abram to the moment they stand in. This prayer is divided into several parts, each highlighting a different aspect of God's character and Israel's responses: The prayer begins by acknowledging God as the Creator of the heavens, the earth, and all that is in them (Nehemiah 9:6). It reminds us that everything we see around us is the work o...

  Nehemiah chapter 8 is a profound chapter that illuminates the power of God's Word and the profound joy that springs from understanding and living according to it. This chapter narrates the Israelites' gathering after their return from exile, where they unite to hear the reading of the Law. This moment is not just a simple reading but a communal act of worship, reflection, and transformation, sparking a profound joy. The chapter begins with a remarkable scene: all the people gather as one in the square before the Water Gate. They ask Ezra, the scribe, to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded for Israel (Nehemiah 8:1). This collective desire to hear God's Word signifies a deep spiritual hunger and a united commitment to rediscover their identity as God's people. This gathering is a powerful reminder of the vital role of community involvement in seeking God's guidance and wisdom, making us feel connected and supported in our spiritu...

  Scripture 7:1-3 (NIV) After the wall had been rebuilt and I had set the doors in place, the gatekeepers, the musicians, and the Levites were appointed. I put in charge of Jerusalem my brother Hanani, along with Hananiah, the commander of the citadel, because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most people do. I told them, “The gates of Jerusalem are not to be opened until the sun is hot. While the gatekeepers are still on duty, have them shut the doors and bar them. Also appoint residents of Jerusalem as guards, some at their posts and some near their own houses.”  Devotion                                                   As we delve into Nehemiah Chapter 7, we witness a pivotal moment in the history of Je...

  Scripture: Nehemiah 6:14-16 (NIV) Remember Tobiah and Sanballat, my God, because of what they have done; remember also the prophet Noadiah and how she and the rest of the prophets have been trying to intimidate me. So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days. When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God. Devotion: In Nehemiah 6, we witness the culmination of an extraordinary feat: the completion of the wall around Jerusalem, despite intense opposition and numerous attempts to thwart the work. This chapter is not merely a historical account; it is a powerful testament to faith, perseverance, and the undeniable hand of God in our endeavors. Nehemiah faced significant challenges from external enemies, such as Tobiah and Sanballat, who sought to intimidate and distract him from his mission. These adversari...

  Scripture: Nehemiah 5:11 (NIV) Give back to them immediately their fields, vineyards, olive groves and houses, and also the interest you are charging them—one percent of the money, grain, new wine and olive oil.” Devotion: In Nehemiah 5, we witness a powerful narrative of justice and righteousness. Nehemiah, a man of God and a leader with a heart for the people, confronts the injustices perpetrated by the wealthy and powerful against the less fortunate. The chapter opens with a great outcry from the people suffering under the burden of debt and exploitation. They are forced to mortgage their fields, vineyards, and homes to buy grain during the famine. Some even sell their children into slavery to pay off their debts. Upon hearing these cries, Nehemiah is deeply moved. He is angry, not only because of the suffering of the people but also because those causing this suffering are their own fellow Jews. Nehemiah calls a large meeting to address the issue. He confronts the n...

Scripture: Numbers 4:1 (NIV) When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became angry and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews, Devotion: The book of Nehemiah is a powerful testament to Nehemiah's resolve, faith, and leadership as he undertook the monumental task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Chapter 4, in particular, highlights the challenges and opposition that often accompany divine assignments. As we delve into this chapter, we will explore the nature of opposition, the response of the faithful, and the ultimate triumph of God's people. Nehemiah 4:1 (NIV) states, "When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became angry and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews." This verse sets the stage for the chapter, introducing us to the opposition led by Sanballat, Tobiah, and other adversaries. Their anger and ridicule were aimed at discouraging and undermining the efforts of the Jews. Opposition is an inevitable...

  Scripture: Nehemiah 3:1-2 Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests went to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and set its doors in place, building as far as the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and as far as the Tower of Hananel. The men of Jericho built the adjoining section, and Zakkur son of Imri built next to them. Devotion: The third chapter of Nehemiah is a testament to the collective effort and dedication of the people of Jerusalem in rebuilding their city's walls and gates. This chapter is a powerful reminder of the purpose of work in our lives. The purpose of their labor was not merely to construct physical structures but to restore the community's safety, dignity, and spiritual well-being. By working together to rebuild the walls, the people of Jerusalem also strengthened their faith and commitment to God. Their work was an act of worship and obedience, reflecting their desire to honor God and protect their community. This c...

Scripture: Nehemiah 2:4-5 (NIV) The king said to me, “What is it you want?” Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, “If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.” Devotion: The story of Nehemiah is a remarkable testament to the power of faith and the impact one individual can have when they trust in God. In Nehemiah 2, we see three distinct aspects of Nehemiah’s faith: the faith to wait, the faith to ask, and the faith to challenge others. Nehemiah demonstrates the faith to wait on God’s timing. As the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, he was in a position of influence yet also bound by duty. When he first heard about the desolation of Jerusalem from his brothers, he was heartbroken. Instead of rushing to action, Nehemiah mourned, fasted, and prayed for several months (Nehemiah 1:4). This period of waiting was not passive but active, filled...

  Nehemiah 1:1-5 (NIV) The words of Nehemiah, son of Hakaliah: In the month of Kislev in the twentieth year, while I was in the citadel of Susa, Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. They said to me, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.” When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days, I mourned, fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven. Devotion: The passage of Nehemiah 1:1-5 reveals the essence of a heart deeply burdened and moved by the plight of Jerusalem. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the king in the citadel of Susa, hears a distressing report from his brother Hanani and other men from Judah. The news they bring is bleak: the Jewish remnant who had survived the exile were in great trouble and dis...

  Scripture: 1 John 4:10-11 (NIV) This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. Devotion: 1 John 4:10-11 captures the heart of the Christian message—God’s profound love for humanity. These verses emphasize that the foundation of love does not rest on our actions but on God's initiative. His love is the starting point and the ultimate example of how we should live. The phrase “not that we loved God, but that he loved us” shifts the focus from human efforts to divine action. It’s a humbling reminder that God's love for us is unconditional, not based on our worthiness but on His gracious nature. This selfless love is proactive and sacrificial. God did not wait for us to love Him first; He took the first step by sending His Son, a gesture that fills us with gratitude and humility. The love of God is demonstrated through the atoning s...

Scripture: 1 John 2:1-2 (NIV) My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. Devotion: 1 John 2:1-2 offers profound comfort and assurance to believers. The Apostle John, often referred to as the Apostle of Love, addresses his audience with deep affection, calling them "my dear children." This paternal tone underscores his care and concern for their spiritual well-being. John's primary purpose in writing is to encourage believers to avoid sin. He acknowledges the reality of human frailty and the temptation to sin, yet he sets a high standard for Christian conduct. The call to holiness reminds us that, as followers of Christ, we are to strive for lives that reflect God's righteousness. Despite the call to avoid sin, John reassures us that if any...

Scripture: Romans 3:25 (NLT) For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, demonstrating the security of His righteousness. Devotion: Romans 3:25 is a profound verse that encapsulates the essence of God's plan for salvation and His righteous character. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, elaborates on the necessity and significance of Christ’s sacrificial death. This verse is a cornerstone of Christian faith, revealing the depth of God’s love and the just nature of His forgiveness. The term 'sacrifice of atonement' refers to the Old Testament practice of offering sacrifices to atone for sins. In the context of Romans 3:25, Paul describes Jesus as the ultimate atoning sacrifice. Unlike the repeated animal sacrifices of the Old Covenant, Je...

Scripture: Micah 7:18 (ESV) Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love. Devotion: In moments of quiet reflection, when we contemplate the nature of our relationship with God, Micah 7:18 offers profound insights into His character. The verse opens with a rhetorical question reverberating through the ages: “Who is a God like you?” This question, more than a mere inquiry, celebrates God’s singular and unparalleled attributes. Micah, a prophet during turbulent times in Israel's history, underscores God’s readiness to pardon sin and forgive transgressions. It's crucial to grasp that this pardon is not a casual overlooking of a fault, but a deliberate act of erasing the debt owed due to sin. This forgiveness is profound, as it signifies the restoration of the relationship between the sinner and God. Despite Israel's repeated unfai...

  Scripture: Romans 12:1-2 (NIV) I appeal to you, therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Devotion:             In this well-known but seldom followed scripture, Paul practically begs his original audience and us to make a dramatic decision to follow Jesus regardless of the cost. The sacrifice Paul has in mind here does not necessarily involve dying for the gospel. (Although it may mean that, too.) The Holy Spirit, through Paul, asks us to be a part of the body of Christ—one living and life-giving sacrifice.             Paul also wants us not to be conformed to the world. The 2...