Daily Devotional for Tuesday 22nd October
Living for God
Living for God is often said to be the best decision you’ll ever make. I agree with this statement. However, it’s difficult to see this when we hear Peter talking about “whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.” Why is this so important?
Peter goes on to say how doing this helps us resist evil human desires and focus on the will of God. Back then, the popular thing was paganism which involved some very evil acts. Today, we could say these evil acts are drunkenness, greed, jealousy, and the love of oneself (aka pride). Jesus calls us to take up our cross daily (Luke 9:23) so we are humbled and do not fall into these patterns of living as the world does. We are called Holy (set apart) by Jesus to live life to the full through Him. We do that by practicing repentance to Him and each other, being grateful for all we have and practicing Love. As Peter says, “love covers a multitude of sins”. Love is powerful and it heals people's hearts.
My Dad is an incredibly hospitable person and he loves inviting people over. I remember one time, we had around 14 people over for Christmas day, most of them we had never met before because none of them had a place to go for Christmas day. To this day, those people still talk about the kindness my Dad showed to them and how he suffered greatly for it as he had so much cooking to do, organising games, and making sure everyone had a present. But the rewards were great. Not only was my Dad blessed with new friends, but I know that God looked down on that meal and blessed it because the hands that made it came from love and a passion for God’s people to feel welcomed into a home.
You might feel this is too much for you to do, and that’s ok. Peter also says “they should do so with the strength God provides”. You don’t have to serve God on your own. He doesn’t crack a whip out and order us to do his work, He partners with us and walks alongside us every step of the way. Sometimes it is hard work, but it is fulfilling and God blesses us when we suffer for His kingdom.
Time to reflect…
What does suffering for Jesus look like in your life? Where can you go for support in tough times?
Pause to pray…
Father, help us live for your kingdom. I’m sorry for not always getting things right and falling short. Help me serve your kingdom and be the best servant I can be for you. Help me Holy Spirit and give me the strength to live for you, Jesus. Amen.
