Day 16 – The Gracious Gift of Exhortation

Scripture

Romans 12:6

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith…

Romans 12:8

He who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Hebrews 10:24,25  And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
 

Thought for Today

The spiritual gift of exhortation is a priceless treasure from God. People with this gift have the ability to go far beyond cheering the mood of others. They are anointed to actually help them see their circumstances from a different perspective. The gift of exhortation allows the Holy Spirit to motivate people to become more positive and to persevere. This prompts the recipient to look to Christ in their lives rather than their situation.

Another word for exhort is encouragement, which means to “instill courage.” A person gifted with exhortation is used by God to revitalize another so that they become brave and are released from the spirit of fear. A word of inspiration is sometimes all that is needed to turn around a person’s whole life. Speaking kind words of reassurance to someone helps them feel confident to accept and walk in their own spiritual and/or natural gifts. 

God the Father knows that humans need a spiritual boost from others to inspire them to continue their journey. Likewise, everyone has received the benefit of a sincere compliment or praise, even people that have the gift of encouragement. Exhortation is a gift that costs nothing but is priceless in value. It has no limits with regard to age, race, religion, or language. Encouragement can be given and received almost anywhere, including:

  • Home
  • Church
  • Workplace
  • Community

Exhortation takes on a variety of forms depending on the people and situation involved. It is manifested in acts of kindness and gifts. Reading a scripture, sharing an uplifting song, and taking time in prayer are examples of exhortation. Seemingly small things like a listening ear or a smile can raise high the spirit of a person who is feeling lowly. A Spirit-given gift of exhortation is always rooted in love.

Keep in mind that encouraging yourself is as vital (if not more) than exhorting others. It is said that nothing can be poured from an empty vessel. You fill your spirit with exhortation when you pray your heart to God. You also do so by reading inspiring scriptures and declaring them over yourself. You are uplifted when you rebuke negative thoughts and speech. Finding joy in something or someone the Lord has given you brightens your day.

Encouraging, comforting, and supporting others reveals the gospel of Jesus in you. The Holy Spirit gives resources and gifts for you to give away to someone else. Still, He is gracious to allow you to get just as much as you give when you elevate others. 

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

It’s Time to Pray

God, we give praise to You for the honor of using our spiritual gifts to uphold someone else. When we are encouraged by another, remind us to return kindness to others. We bless You in the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 15 – Victory Over Chaos and Confusion

Scripture

1 Corinthians 14:33  For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

1 Corinthians 14:40   Let all things be done decently and in order.

Proverbs 24:27  Prepare your outside work, Make it fit for yourself in the field; And afterward build your house.
 

Thought for Today

No good thing can be completed correctly in an environment filled with disarray. Chaos is the enemy of production, while a calm spirit can accomplish much. Have you ever had a day packed with activities and tasks yet you still finished almost everything on your “to-do” to do list?  You were able to do so because your steps are directed by an orderly God. He gives you the strength to do whatever needs to be done (Psalm 119:133).

The Creator demonstrated quintessential orderliness from the very beginning. The account of creation of the heavens and earth in Genesis the first chapter provides a glimpse into His process.

God methodically planned the timing of the creation of elements to work in harmony with one another (day and night, for example). Although our minds cannot grasp the full magnitude of what He accomplished, we learn a Divine lesson of the value of thought and organization.

God’s standards of order and organization are revealed in every book in the Bible. Notice the intricate details with which he instructed Noah to build the ark (Genesis 6:13-22). The Lord God was the architect for Solomon’s temple; He directed everything from the tools used to build it, to the opulent materials and furniture (1 Kings 6), with supernatural precision. In the book of Judges, chapters 6-8, God gave Gideon a specific formula to guarantee victory. A well-organized plan produces magnificent results!

The Lord also requires orderliness when His people are gathered for service or worship. He intentionally directed the seating arrangement of the crowd of five thousand which gathered to be fed.  Later, the Apostle Paul instructed the church regarding church order in service, conduct, and the use of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians chapter 14). God cannot receive the worship and honor He is due in the middle of pandemonium. We must give Him our very best on every level when we gather in His name.

Moments of confusion, frustration, and inefficiency will happen; some days are more challenging than others. During these times we call upon God to make our paths straight again. But if frequent disorder is a lifestyle, we may be relying on ourselves rather than God. Only through Jesus can we do anything (1 John 15:4,5), which includes living an organized life. God teaches us how to escape the trap of a confused mind, reminding us to commit all of our works to Him so that He will establish our thoughts (Proverbs 16:3).

In addition, don’t neglect to always keep watch for signs that the devil is trying to steal and kill your peaceful existence with God. He looks for areas in your life that show signs of confusion, instability or commotion. He will target places and things that are closest to you, such as:

  • Your home and family
  • Church, Bible Study, and your Christian relationships
  • Your workspace
  • The mind and/or body of you or someone you love

You are not unaware of Satan’s schemes or subject to his authority. You can effectively fight back confusion and the mayhem that comes with it by the power of a sound mind which is yours in Christ. If chaos is threatening to overwhelm you, take back your God-given orderly life with weapons not made by hands (2 Corinthians 10:4-6).

 “He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.” Psalm 23:2-3

It’s Time to Pray!

Father God thank you cleanliness of mind, body, and spirit through the blood of Jesus. We trust you to order our steps to paths of calm peace which reflects Your Presence. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 14 – Psalm 20 – A Prayer of Assured Victory

Scripture

Psalm 20:1-3

May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; May the name of the God of Jacob defend you;
May He send you help from the sanctuary, And strengthen you out of Zion; May He remember all your offerings, And accept your burnt sacrifice. 

Psalm 20:4-6

May He grant you according to your heart’s desire, And fulfill all your purpose.
We will rejoice in your salvation, And in the name of our God we will set up our banners!
May the Lord fulfill all your petitions. Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven With the saving strength of His right hand.

Thought for Today

 Would an inspiring prayer encourage you today as you (or someone you know) prepare for a battle you are facing? Psalm 20 is one of many earnest entreaties in the bible that speaks to the heart of those seeking the Lord God for answers and victory in troubled times.

In this prayer, David and the congregation gathered in God’s presence in the sanctuary just before battle. David prayed for their deliverance from trouble. He asked for heavenly defense against their enemies, while still acknowledging the need for atonement of their sins. David recognized that God knew the desires and plans of the king’s heart concerning the fight ahead. He requested they be granted.

Confident that God heard and would answer, the psalmist then exclaimed words of rejoicing and celebration-even before the actual battle began!  He declared that the Lord answers His anointed with saving strength. Later, he confirmed that God is the source of all victories, not human armies or weapons.

It was not unusual for ancient Israel to seek God in prayer before a contest. The nation as a whole considered entering the battlefield a deeply spiritual experience. For example, David made this abundantly clear as he stood before Goliath. He declared without a doubt that he came ready to fight in the name of the Lord. Therefore, he said, not only would he decapitate the giant Philistine, there would be nothing left of the Philistine camp but carcasses upon which the birds would feast (1 Samuel 17).

Psalm 20 is a model of petition, humility, faith, praise, and worship in prayer. The words were spoken to God in supplication for the individuals in the sanctuary as well as for the nation of Israel.  Like David, you can be assured that you are His anointed whom He loves, protects, and saves. Do not worry about the size or manner of conflict in front of you. Face your battle ready to fight in the name of the Lord. Your victory is His victory!

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord
our God. They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.  Save, Lord!
May the King answer us when we call.” Psalm 20:7-9

 

Time to Pray

 Lord God, we trust You to go before us in every encounter, large or small. Thank you for the victories you’ve given on our behalf. We praise you for those that lay ahead which You already seen and conquered. Hallelujah in the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 13 – Faith That Presses Through

 

Scripture

Hebrews 12:1,2 

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Philippians 3:13, 14

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

 2 Timothy 2:3

You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

 

Thought for Today

Christians are not immune to facing various challenges each day. Some trials may be severe or life-changing. We also fight for victory over lesser struggles that add up and weigh us down. Discouragement, weariness, and distractions are among many reasons you may have felt like giving up. You are not alone. The bible teaches that believers in Christ will have tribulation and sorrow. Nonetheless, the scriptures promise that just as Jesus overcame the world, by faith we can do the same.

The fact that you are reading these words means you have the faith to keep going.  Countless people who are mentioned in the bible had the same kind of faith. It is this faith that pushes through with perseverance until God gives the victory. Their experiences many thousands of years ago were left to teach and motivate you today.

The men and women found in Hebrews 11 are sometimes referred to as the “champions of faith.” Their lives are truly examples of the tenacious faith in God (not human perfection) that overcomes the most difficult situations conceivable. Noah, for example, was warned about God’s impending judgement upon the earth. He believed that The Holy God was justified in punishing a world steeped in unrepentant sin. Noah was moved with fear but still followed the detailed instructions God gave him to the letter. His tremendous faith resulted in the saving of his family and condemnation of the world.

In addition, Noah became an heir of righteousness. He forged ahead by faith to complete a humongous assignment without the need to know every detail of what lay ahead. Like Noah, your faith is the evidence of things not seen, it moves mountains, and overcomes the world (Hebrews 11:1, Matthew 17:20, 1 John 5:4).

Rahab’s name is forever included in the list of the foremost people of faith. She defied the orders of the king’s men and hid the spies of Joshua in her own home. Rahab lied about their location when their pursuers came looking for them. She had faith enough to believe that Joshua’s men were of God, which led her to act. She pushed past thoughts that her ungodly lifestyle prevented her from being used by God, resulting in great reward.

Hebrews 11 is packed with powerful accounts of people who pressed through all types of trials. Still, the writer admits that there wasn’t time enough to tell about even more people throughout history who demonstrated unimaginable acts of faith. Make it a habit to study their testimonies for inspiration and to fortify your own faith whenever you feel like you can’t go on. Remember, your faith will never fail you because it has been authored and finished by Jesus Christ!

 

 Time to Pray!

 Father God, thank you for a faith that endures all things. We are grateful to You for strength in our weakness and examples in the bible to boost our faith. In the name of Jesus…Amen


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Day 12 – Get Ready and Stay Ready

Scripture

 Matthew 24:42 Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.

 1Timothy 4:1,2  I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.

 Matthew 6:19-21  Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

 

 

Thought for Today

The term “preparedness” is often used to describe a lifestyle wholly devoted to attaining and storing extra resources in the event of a disaster. The trend increased during the COVID 19 pandemic, as millions hoarded supplies for fear they would run out. According to a 2020 preparedness survey conducted by The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the pandemic changed the very culture of this country. 

For instance, 65% of Americans reported they searched the FEMA website for preparedness information. A total of 81% of report they gather extra supplies, and 48% created emergency plans for their families; a 6% increase in one year.

Not everyone that stocks up on extra supplies does so out of panic or fear. Yet there are millions who become obsessed with being ready for whatever may happen on earth in the future. Does that leave room to depend on God or to get ready for the coming of His Son, Jesus?

Christians are blessed with the spirit of a sound mind and wisdom from God, which ensures they keep track of the things needed for their families (James 1:5, Proverbs 2:6). But never do we allow terror to move us to stockpile food, weapons, or other items. We do not panic or become anxious because we trust God, who supplies our needs (Philippians 4:19). Instead, our concentration is to attain and keep ourselves in a constant state of readiness for the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The scriptures affirm that Jesus will return for the Church, which is the Body of Christ. No man knows the day or the hour, yet we never doubt His return. As members of that Body, we are likened to a bride (1 Corinthians 11:4, Revelation 21:9-11). Love for Him prevents us taking a risk of being less than totally adorned and prepared to meet the Lamb who was arrested, beaten, tried, and crucified for our salvation.

The Holy Scriptures leave no stone unturned in equipping us how to prepare for His coming. Therefore, we don’t need to rush manically to get ready to meet him, the instructions are clear. The Word tells us to remain sober, watchful at all times. Always alert, we must stay always ready to fight against the wiles of the devil. Abiding in His Word, we maintain a readiness posture as we seek ways to share the Gospel of peace. The Word teaches us how to persuade, admonish, and encourage at a moment’s notice and live a life filled with constant prayer, service, and learning. A life filled with peace and good works has more value than a cache of temporal earthly riches.

You don’t know how much time on earth is left between finishing reading this devotional and being in the presence of the Lord Jesus. Why not choose to get ready and stay ready until you see Him face to face?

 

“But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.”

1 Peter 4:7

 

Time to Pray!

 Lord God, thank You for the privilege of being a part of the Body of Christ. Help us to remember to live as You instruct us so that others will desire the same hope that we have. We praise you in the name of Jesus. Amen

 

 

 


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Day 11 – Power Source

Scripture

2 Corinthians 4:6,7

For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us

 John 8:12

Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

 

Thought for Today

Have you ever wrestled with a circumstance, complained in frustration, or felt helpless? Many have exclaimed, “I’m doing the best I can!” when their best efforts fail.  Most humans have the tendency to try to solve problems on their own. Even the most mature Christians have been tempted to solve a situation themselves, especially when a sudden problem takes them by surprise.

The Almighty God knows our weaknesses. Therefore, He reminds us that He supplies all the answers to our questions and solutions to our problems. Trusting and recognizing Him, and not what we understand, puts us on the path to limitless power (Proverbs 3:5,6). We may be gifted with intelligence, education, or many skills. God, however, is the very source from which all things exist. He knows the before, during, and after throughout eternity.

Power is an eternal and inherent trait of God (Romans 1:20). He encourages us to draw upon His power and wisdom, which never fail. As the Origin of dynamic power, God knows that without him we have no light in the darkness. The wonderful news is that we don’t have to rely on our finite minds and frail bodies to figure out what to do. The Creator has placed the knowledge in our hearts that God’s dazzling glory shined bright in the face of Our Savior, Jesus Christ!

The Apostle Paul writes that we are privileged to carry this treasure in our earthen vessels. He makes it clear, however, that the excellence of this power is of God. It is not of us, for we are dim and powerless without the light of the Father and redemption through His Son. Having accepted Jesus, you have been born again into His Kingdom of marvelous light. You have access to the power of the Holy Spirit Himself (Acts 1:8).
 

In your weakness, the power of God is perfectly strengthened (2 Corinthians 12:9). You do not have to function independent of love, mercy, and help from the All-Powerful One in times of trouble or indecision. He is willing to pour out the spirit of power, along with love and a sound mind. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you with all you need to make your paths straight. He is worthy of all praise!

 

You are the Source of my strength

You are the Strength of my life

I lift my hands in total praise to You!

                              -Total Praise Richard Smallwood ©2003

Time to Pray!

Gracious Father God, we are grateful that You allow us to lean on You rather than ourselves. Thank you for access to Your power from heaven to be able to do all things through Your Son who strengthens us. We worship You in humility and honor in the name of Jesus. Amen

 

 


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Day 10 – Created for Good Works

 

Scripture 

Galatians 6:9

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

 Ephesians 2:10

For we are His workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in then.

 

Thought for Today

God observes the things you do, say, and think every second of the day. You have his attention whether you do things that are pleasing to Him or taking actions that need His correction. God sees when you make an effort to serve someone else and, at times, placing their needs above your own. In some instances you don’t feel appreciated by the recipient. Or, your help is answered with a dry “thanks” at best. The Bible has all the answers you need to avoid being discouraged or angry when this occurs.

The key to not taking offense is to know that it is God, not you, who sets the stage for you to do good works. How many times have you “felt led” by the Holy Spirit to do or say something good that you had not planned? The truth is that The Creator fashioned you to walk in good works. When you obey, you are walking out what He has already planned. This takes pressure off of you. You’re less likely to feel hurt or offended. Once you’ve obeyed His voice, the reaction (or lack of it) is out of your control.

Further, you must recall the devil is always on the sidelines waiting to attack. Something which could possibly be a simple misunderstanding can cause hurt or discord between you and your brother or sister. Maybe the person is too overwhelmed or even too shy to express their gratitude. Maybe your expectation of their reaction was set too high. Choose Christ-like love rather than allow any place for the enemy. This love bears, believes, endures, and hopes all things (1 Corinthians 13:7).  So whether a slight is intentional or not, love covers the situation and leaves the hearts of all parties intact.

Never get too weary or discouraged to do good works-large or small. A love for giving and serving others is a heaven sent gift. Notice how you feel genuine joy when you meet a need or make someone feel special. You might be having a challenging day and performing a good work lifts your spirit. Father God gives you the calling, the resources, and the strength to do the His work. Even more, He rewards you for your obedience as you do such works with a heart full of love because you’re doing them for Him and not men (Colossians 3:23).

This and every day, sow seeds of love and peace that reflect the fruit of the Kingdom of God. The Lord promises a season of reaping rewards prepared for you if you don’t give up.

 

It’s Time to Pray

Thank you Lord God for using me as a servant in Your time and purpose. Help me stay strong and resist any scheme of the devil to discourage me from doing good works to others. Your Will be done in all things. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 9 – Living Holy in Wholeness

Scripture

James 1:3, 4

Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

John 5:6-8

When Jesus saw him…He saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man…to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.  Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked.

James 5:14

Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.

 

Thought for Today

 Every believer in Christ can relate countless testimonies about God’s deliverance in times of trouble. He’s faithful to relieve us from pain, financial burdens, and sometimes our own minds. When God answers prayer, we immediately feel more like ourselves as we shout a grateful, “Thank You Lord!” For the moment, life seems back to “normal.”, or whole again. Yet, God sees you as totally complete before, during, and after the trials you face.

In fact, James 1:2-4 is a reminder that testing and trials should be considered joyful, since patience is produced during these times. Rather than feeling rejected and unworthy, know that when you face adversity your patience is perfected. You are entirely whole and lack nothing! Your position as a child of God by the sacrifice of His Son Jesus makes you an heir to the heavenly kingdom. As such, your location or circumstances have no effect on your value.

You have this heavenly assurance by the inspired Word of God. Romans 8:31 says you are more than a conqueror. 1 John 5:4 proclaims you have the victory that overcomes the world. These and many other scriptures affirm that you are whole in Christ, without regard to your earthly situation. God’s Word offers you the keys to maintaining this state of blessed completeness.

For instance, when Jesus healed the man in the pool of Bethesda, He first asked whether he wanted to be healed. The Lord listened to his answer and then spoke immediate healing, which the man received. Later, Jesus reminded him not to sin again lest he suffer a worse fate. You too must have the desire to be whole, hear and obey God’s instructions, and live your life in holiness.

Jesus affirmed that faith is also a direct link to healing.  Two of these instances include when He healed the woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9:22) and the leper (Luke 17:19). 1 John 5:4 makes it clear that faith is the victory that overcomes the world. The Lord God sees you with nothing missing, through eyes of redemption and love. Let prayer and the World help you build up your faith and holiness and live in wholeness with confidence.

“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.” 1 Peter 1:15

It’s Time to Pray!

Father God, thank you for fashioning me as a complete and new creation. Your grace and mercy are limitless. You supply everything I need according to the riches of Your power. Help to live a life that is pleasing in Your sight. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 8 – No Greater Love

 

Scripture

John 15:13,14 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you (KJV).

John 13:1b Jesus knew that His hour had come…having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.

Ephesians 3: 17b-19  And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

 

Thought for Today

The heart of affection that Jesus has toward you is the essence of love and joy perfected. The love He feels for you is always active; it is immeasurable and everlasting. Nothing can separate you from His devotion (Romans 8:38,39). 

In times of testing He draws nearer to you, just like an earthly parent to a hurting child. He understands that it may be hard to feel His presence when you are under fire. However, if you ask Him for reassurance, He will speak words of life and love to you through the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. Because of this, pressing in with prayer is most important when you face a challenging trial.

In Jeremiah 31:3 God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love” and drawn you with lovingkindness. Nothing is too far, high or low for the love of Jesus to cover you when you need Him. The depth of His love is like a well that never runs dry. Jesus left a Helper, the Holy Spirit, to comfort you and deliver your desires and needs to heaven with perfect communication. His love is poured out in your heart by the Spirit Himself (Romans 5:5).

Unlike imperfect people, Jesus never leaves you guessing where you stand in His eyes. He does not cut off your access to Him when you make mistakes. His loves you generously, even though He owes you nothing.  In John 15:14 Jesus said He considers those that do what He commands as friends. Jesus makes His expectations clear in the bible so that you know what pleases Him. His yoke is easy and burden is light; Jesus makes provision for confession and repentance for your sins.

Jesus Christ actively demonstrates His love for you in limitless ways each day. He is King of Kings, through which all things were made and all that you have is given. Above all else, you have the hope of eternal salvation because Jesus laid down His life as a sacrifice for you, His friend.

 

Time to Pray

Father God, thank You for Your Son, Jesus. Words fail to describe our gratitude that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer, Lord, Savior, and Friend. Remind us each day to praise and worship Him and tell others of His love and great sacrifice. In the name of Jesus. Amen


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Day 7 – Undisputed Champions

 
Scripture
 
Romans 8:37
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 

Deuteronomy 20:4
For the Lord God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.
 
1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
 
 
 
Thought for Today

UNDISPUTED CHAMPIONS are rare in any sport or field in life. Think about how difficult it is to compete or perform for an entire season or timespan and be considered the very best by reporters, competitors, and fans. These high achievers reach levels which surpass just winning. They consistently shatter records and become influential members of society.

UNDISPUTED CHAMPIONS are not perfect. In fact, they may have numerous imperfections. But they are known as champions for their irrefutable ability to work hard, to stay focused on their goal. They stick together with their team, overcome adversity, persevere through difficult times and pursue victory with diligence. Society labels someone who has attained the highest goals in their field as a GOAT (Greatest of all Time). God’s promises of true victory are yours when you apply the same perseverance, team loyalty, and tenacity to your life as a believer in Christ.

Throughout the scriptures, the Lord reminds you of your status as an elite and unquestioned champion! Yes, in this life you face many challenges that are far beyond your natural ability to overcome them. Additionally, you have a formidable opponent in the devil who hates you. He constantly devises plans and schemes to defeat you by keeping you in a state of discouragement and despair. As we experience these things, it is critical trust God, call upon Him in prayer, stand on His Word and watch Him lead you to victory.

The Apostle John declared our victory. “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” (1 John 5:4) 

There is no dispute that after Jesus died on the cross that on the third day, God the Father raised His only begotten Son from the dead. In doing so, Jesus conquered death, hell and the grave. Jesus, the risen Christ, is the ULTIMATE UNDISPUTED CHAMPION! He has conquered all things for us, no matter what we face in life. And more, He has made you more than a conqueror, a champion who cannot ever lose!

Time to Pray!
Lord Jesus, I thank You for saving me from my sins and giving me everlasting life through my confession of faith in You. I praise You as my Savior, Lord and UNDISPUTED CHAMPION who has defeated every foe that I will face in life. I believe You that no matter what challenge I face, I am victorious in You. In Jesus name, Amen!


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