Based on “Self-serve or Serve God?” by Pastor Dave Folkerts; 2/12-13/11,
Message #DF155; Daily Devotional #5 - “The Greatest Gift”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction): For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. (Titus 2:11-14)
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): This week's teaching reminded me of a personal weakness. I have, at times, compared myself to other people and allowed myself to be jealous of their blessings. I was thankful that the teaching reminded me I have already received from God the ultimate gift of salvation by the sacrifice of His Son Jesus (John 3:16). As I get older, it becomes easier for me to forget how miserable I was before I accepted the sacrifice of Jesus. It is healthy for us to be reminded, from time to time, of the emptiness we experienced, and the pain of living life filled with the consequences of sin, before we accepted Christ and entered into a loving relationship with God. Anyone who has ever loved someone knows how difficult it is to see them hurt. I am humbled that the most infinite power in the universe would ordain that His Son should suffer and be put to death for my sake, although He had done no wrong. He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” (Luke 24:25-26). It is easy for us in our finite view of life to feel as though circumstances we encounter may not be fair. As Christ followers, we should always remember that it was not fair that Jesus suffered for us (Ephesians 2:8-9). God's view is eternal, and His plan goes beyond finite, difficult circumstances to an infinite, greater good. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): The goal of serving is not to
receive personal rewards or blessings, but to bring glory to our Saving God. We do well to remind ourselves that a relationship with a perfect God is an amazing gift. We remind ourselves of this, not to punish ourselves, but so that we can be motivated by God's love to work for His Kingdom. Never take God's grace for granted, and remember to thank God in prayer for His gift of personal salvation.
Cultivating (Additional Reading): Romans 6:6-7; Romans 6:23
WSK
Calvary Chapel of Melbourne; 2955 Minton Road; W. Melbourne, FL 32904; 321-952-9673
All Bible references are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted.