Aug 22 2024

Today's Bible Verse

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.

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In this verse from 1 Timothy, Paul emphasizes that Jesus is the only mediator between us and the Lord. There is no other god or path to salvation; Jesus has atoned for our sins and we need Him to be saved. This verse reminds us of the power of Jesus to mediate between us and the Lord, as well as the exclusivity of salvation.

Sometimes, people disagree with the doctrine that salvation comes through Jesus alone. Many popular figures suggest that people can get to heaven by believing in any god or through being a "good person." However, this is not true because it suggests that we do not need Jesus. Any proposed way to heaven that does not include the atoning working of Jesus on the cross is a false gospel.

When we understand why we need Jesus as our salvation, the doctrine begins to look anything but exclusive. All humans were dead in sin; none of us could approach the Lord, a Holy God, because we had defiled ourselves. We could not get forgiveness for that sin; the only appropriate payment for it was death. When Jesus died for us, He took on the blame for our sin and died an innocent death.

By shedding His blood for us, the price of our sin was paid, and forgiveness became available to everyone. Anyone could ask for forgiveness and receive it; there were no exceptions to the rule. Thus, Christianity offers a way forward for anyone who seeks Him. No one is excluded.

Because of Jesus, we can have a relationship with the Lord. When we call out to Him to forgive us for our sins, He cleanses us with His righteousness. At the same time, if we do not call out to the Lord, asking Him to save us, Jesus will not mediate on our behalf. We must take the initiative, recognizing that we need the Lord to save us.

Today, reflect on the grace that the Lord has shown you. Think about Jesus, who loved you so much that He was willing to die so you could have the opportunity to be forgiven. Rejoice in the fact that Christianity is open to everyone who calls on the name of the Lord!

Today's Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for providing a way of salvation for all who call on your name. Help me to remember that you are a good, good God and that you love me so much. Thank you for Jesus, Lord, who made my relationship with you possible. In Jesus' name, amen.

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Aug 21 2024

Yesterday's Bible Verse

The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands. :

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Yesterday's Bible study

In this verse from Psalm 138, King David thinks about how the Lord has been faithful and looks to his own future, which he knows is secure in the Lord. He writes that "the Lord will perfect" whatever concerns David, meaning that the Lord will fulfill the purpose of his life. David knows that this is an act of mercy, and He asks the Lord to continue to mold him into the person that the Lord has made him to be.

David recognizes that to accomplish his purpose, he will need to rely on the Lord. He cannot do what the Lord has called him to do without supernatural help; he knows that he needs the Lord deeply. In fact, he puts the responsibility of his calling into God's hands by asking Him to fulfill that calling.

David's concern is obedience above all else; He knows the Lord will take care of the rest.

David specifically asks that the Lord continue to sanctify him when he asks Him not to forsake the work of His hands. David wants to be corrected by the Lord, even if it is painful. His obedience is more important than his own comfort; he would rather be near the Lord and live in holiness than far from the Lord and be his own master. David seeks nearness to the Lord, whatever the cost.

Today, if you are struggling to find your purpose, remember that you don't have to worry about it. Your job, like David's, is to turn it over to the Lord, praying for direction and surrendering to His leading—but leaving it in His hands. Focus on walking with the Lord, and you will be living in your purpose. He will fulfill everything else.

Yesterday's Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for making me and calling me your own. Please help me to be like you, Lord, and help me to focus on you before I focus on a career or any other questions I have about my future. Help me to be holy and walk in your ways. In Jesus' name, amen.
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