Feb 10 2022

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

Throughout history, gold has been considered a metal of great worth. When compared with other metals, gold is unique in its characteristics. It doesn't oxidize, and it is very malleable. Gold is considered an excellent investment because it generally doesn't depreciate. It retains its value.

How do we decide what has value in our lives? Many would point to relationships with family and friends. Some, when considering what's most valuable, would think about the wealth and possessions they have accumulated.

In Acts 20:24, Paul reminds us that nothing is as important as spreading the Gospel and living a life that honors God. It's a race in which no one can complete without totally relying on God's strength and power.

What we value directly affects the choices we make, and those choices have the power to change the course of our lives. Paul decided that whether he lived or died was in the hands of God. He traded his life for the life God had for him.

The best choice we can ever make is to give our lives back to the One who created us. Then we will discover peace and joy that may have no monetary value but are truly priceless.

Lord, thank you for giving me life. I acknowledge that this life is not my own. I want to be a good steward of everything you have provided to me. More than anything, I want to finish the race I have started by following you. It isn't always easy, but you can give me the strength to overcome. Thank you for your joy and peace that sustains me throughout all the ups and downs of life. In Jesus' name, amen.

Feb 09 2022

Nevertheless for thy great mercies' sake thou didst not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for thou art a gracious and merciful God. :

In the Old Testament, we read about a man named Nehemiah. He wasn't a prophet or a great leader when God called him to rebuild the wall that had once stood firmly around the city of Jerusalem. He was a simple cupbearer, a servant to the king.

The Israelites, God's chosen people, spent hundreds of years going back and forth between following God and worshipping idols. They would sin and then turn back to God in repentance. This happened repeatedly.

Nehemiah was concerned for Jerusalem and the Jews who were living in an unprotected city. Without massive walls, the city was vulnerable to attacks. Nehemiah was troubled to the point of action. With the blessing of the king, he traveled to Jerusalem and met with Jewish leaders who agreed to support him in rebuilding the wall.

Nehemiah rebuilt the wall, and God's people gave thanks for God's unfailing grace and mercy toward them. They didn't deserve it, and they knew it. God could have forsaken them for their constant disobedience, but He didn't because He loved them.

Often, God calls those whom the world would not choose to do great things for Him. He provides wisdom and ability to people who will serve Him willingly. Nehemiah was willing and obedient.

Every day we can offer ourselves in service to the One who extends His never-ending grace toward us. Only God knows how He can use our lives to affect the lives of others.

Lord, You have always been faithful to your people. Even in my own disobedience, you have never forsaken me. I offer myself to you because I realize that my life isn't my own. You have blessed me with the ability to choose you as the Lord of my life. Help me stay faithful to you. Thank you for showing grace and mercy to me. You are good. In Jesus' name, amen.


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