Seeking God’s Righteousness

Dearly Beloved, 

Day 199 of Bible in One Year Devotion:

Today’s readings from Psalms, Romans, and Amos invite us to seek God earnestly, trust in His promises, and pursue righteousness.

Psalms 86:1-10 is a heartfelt prayer from David, expressing his deep reliance on God’s mercy and love. David pleads for God to hear him, acknowledging his need and affirming God’s greatness. He seeks God’s protection and deliverance, trusting in His steadfast love. David’s humility and devotion remind us of the importance of seeking God earnestly and recognizing our dependence on His grace and mercy.

In Romans 4:1-15, Paul discusses the example of Abraham to illustrate justification by faith. He explains that Abraham was counted as righteous because of his faith, not because of his works. This righteousness through faith is a gift from God, available to all who believe. Paul’s message emphasizes that it is not through our efforts or adherence to the law that we are made right with God, but through faith in His promises. This passage reassures us that our relationship with God is founded on faith and trust in His grace.

Amos 5 delivers a powerful call to repentance and righteousness. God, through the prophet Amos, urges the people of Israel to seek Him and live. He condemns their hollow religious practices and injustices, calling them to true worship and justice. God’s desire is for righteousness to flow like a river and justice like a never-failing stream. This chapter challenges us to examine our lives, to ensure that our faith is genuine and our actions reflect God’s justice and righteousness.

These scriptures collectively emphasize the importance of seeking God wholeheartedly and living righteously. They remind us that true faith goes beyond mere words or rituals; it is demonstrated through our actions and commitment to justice and goodness. We are called to seek God’s presence in our lives, to trust in His promises, and to pursue righteousness in all we do.

As we reflect on these passages, let us be inspired to seek God earnestly, trust in His grace, and commit to living justly and righteously. Let us allow our faith to be the foundation of our actions, reflecting God’s love and justice in our daily lives.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to seek You earnestly and live righteously. Strengthen our faith and guide us to reflect Your justice and love in all we do. May our actions be pleasing to You and our lives be a testament to Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Seeking Healing and Restoration: Finding Hope in God's Mercy

Dear friends, 

Today's reflection centers on Psalm 38:12, where David laments, "Those who seek my life lay their snares; those who seek my hurt speak of ruin and meditate treachery all day long." In the midst of trials and opposition, David cries out to God for deliverance and healing, finding hope in His mercy and faithfulness.

In Psalm 38:1-12, David describes his anguish and distress, acknowledging his sin and pleading for God's forgiveness and healing. He recognizes the consequences of his wrongdoing but trusts in God's steadfast love and mercy to restore him.

Luke 7:11-35 recounts two miraculous events performed by Jesus: the raising of a widow's son in Nain and the testimony of John the Baptist about Jesus. These miracles serve as signs of Jesus' authority and compassion, bringing hope and healing to those in need and affirming His identity as the Messiah.

Numbers 23:27-30 records Balak's frustration with Balaam's inability to curse the Israelites and his subsequent attempt to persuade Balaam to try again. Despite Balak's efforts, Balaam reaffirms his commitment to speak only what God commands, acknowledging God's sovereignty over all nations.

Numbers 24 continues the story of Balaam's blessings upon the Israelites, despite Balak's repeated attempts to manipulate him. Balaam prophesies blessings over the Israelites, recognizing their favored status in God's eyes and affirming God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.

Numbers 25 narrates the Israelites' apostasy and idolatry at Baal-Peor, resulting in God's judgment upon them. Despite their rebellion, God demonstrates His mercy by staying the plague through the zeal of Phinehas, who is commended for his faithfulness and obedience.

Numbers 26:1-11 outlines the census of the Israelites after the plague, reaffirming God's covenant promises to multiply His people and fulfill His purposes through them. Despite their sin and disobedience, God remains faithful to His chosen people, preserving and renewing them for His glory.

As we reflect on these passages, let us turn to God in times of distress and seek His forgiveness and healing. Like David, may we acknowledge our sinfulness and trust in God's mercy and faithfulness to restore us. Let us also recognize the signs of Jesus' authority and compassion in our lives, finding hope and healing in His saving grace.

WISDOM, LOVE, AND TRUST: FOUNDATIONS OF A FAITHFUL LIFE

Dear brothers and sisters,

Today's devotion explores the themes of Proverbs 1:8–19, Matthew 5:43–48, Matthew 6:25–34, Matthew 7:1-23, Genesis 17, and Genesis 18—a tapestry that weaves together wisdom, love, trust, and the unwavering faithfulness of God.

Proverbs 1:8–19 imparts the importance of parental guidance and the choice to resist the allure of sin. As we delve into Matthew 5:43–48, Jesus challenges us to embody radical love, extending it even to those who may be considered enemies. This divine love transcends human understanding and serves as the foundation for righteous living.

In Matthew 6:25–34, Jesus addresses anxiety, urging us to trust in God's provision. The verse of the day from Matthew 6:34 emphasises the importance of focusing on the present moment, trusting that God's grace is sufficient for each day.

Turning to Matthew 7:1–23, Jesus instructs on judgement, the narrow gate, and true discipleship. The call to refrain from judging others and to seek the narrow path underscores the importance of humility and a heart tuned to God's wisdom.

Genesis 17 and Genesis 18 recount the covenant God makes with Abram, renaming him Abraham, and the promise of a son through Sarah. This miraculous fulfilment of God's promise in their old age is a testament to His faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His timing.

As we reflect on these scriptures, may we seek wisdom, live out radical love, and trust in God's provision. Let us cast aside anxiety about the future, refrain from passing judgement, and walk in the footsteps of faithful obedience. May our lives be marked by the foundational principles of wisdom, love, and trust, knowing that our faithful God is with us each step of the way. Amen.

BLESSED LIVING: A CALL TO RIGHTEOUSNESS AND UNITY

Dear brothers and sisters, 

Today's devotion delves into the messages of Psalms 4, Matthew 4:23–25, Matthew 5:1–20, Genesis 9:18–29, Genesis 10, and Genesis 11:1–9—a mosaic of scriptures guiding us towards a blessed life characterised by righteousness and unity.

Psalms 4 calls us to trust in God, finding peace and joy in His presence even in the midst of challenges. Matthew 4:23–25 portrays Jesus' ministry of healing and teaching, setting the stage for the transformative sermon found in Matthew 5:1–20—the Beatitudes. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for their lives are marked by divine satisfaction.

Genesis 9:18–29 recounts the post-flood narrative, emphasising the importance of familial relationships and the consequences of Noah's actions. This passage reminds us of the complexities of human relationships and the need for righteousness in our interactions.

Genesis 10 provides a genealogy of nations, reflecting the diverse tapestry of humanity. However, Genesis 11:1–9 narrates the story of the Tower of Babel, highlighting the dangers of pride and the consequences of seeking unity apart from God. The scattering of people and the confusion of languages serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of humility and dependence on God in our pursuit of unity.

The verse of the day from Matthew 5:6 encourages us to hunger and thirst for righteousness, echoing the call to align our lives with God's standards. As we navigate the intricacies of relationships and seek unity, may our pursuit be grounded in righteousness. May we be blessed as we hunger for God's ways, finding satisfaction in a life lived in accordance with His will. Amen.

HOW TO FIND YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS - Step Four

Seek feedback and confirmation from other Christians who know you well. They can help you recognize and affirm your spiritual gifts by observing your behavior and attitude, by sharing their experiences and examples, and by giving you honest and constructive feedback.

They can also help you find opportunities and outlets to use your gifts in the church and in the world. See also 1 Corinthians 12:4-6.