IS JESUS OUR EXAMPLE?
Daphne Powell
Today's Scripture: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10, ESV
Theme: Jesus came to find and befriend lost people. He instructed us to do likewise.
TIME
There are 60 minutes in an hour, 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week. How much time do you give to the Lord? The time we have is a gift from Him. How do you honor His gift? Jesus ministered to others by spending time with them, praying with and for them. The world tries to consume all our time with work and worry. We must be intentional about setting aside time every day to spend with Him and serving others. Don’t just schedule it either; be open to God-given, unexpected opportunities.
SPIRITUAL GIFTS
The spiritual gifts identified in Romans 12 are prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leadership, and mercy. The reason for the gift you’ve been given is for you to use it. And to use it for His will, not yours. Our testimonies have power. When we are willing to use our gifts and share our testimonies with others, we can help them recognize their gift and to help them lean on God. We can’t share our gifts if we don’t get out and meet others.
HEART
When we look at people, how do we see them? If we looked at everyone through Jesus’ eyes, we would see our brother or sister. Our hearts would warm, and a smile would be shared. If you have heat, A/C, food, home, car, or a job, know this it is by the grace of God. Those who have should care for those who do not have. But when you can’t see your brother or sister, or you begin to judge them, you start to give yourself credit and not the Father.
Make It Personal: I always think about the words of Chadwick Bosman, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything You gave me.’” I try to live that way. I want to stand before Him empty. Would you consider making this your lifelong goal, also?
Pray: Dear Lord, thank You for Your grace and mercy in my life. I want to honor You with loving others, following Your example. Amen
Read: Matthew 23:11, Isaiah 6:8, Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Matthew 25:40
Weekly Memory Verse: “But when he heard it, he said, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means: ‘”desire mercy, and not sacrifice.” For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.’” Matthew 9:12-13, ESV