Reverence and Awe

» Today's reading at Blue Letter Bible

Today Spurgeon exhorts us to live so that people might say we "have been with Jesus". He also encourages us to return to our first love, Jesus.

Forgiveness is a powerful thing and I believe it's one of those responses that truly sets us apart from the unregenerate. But, it also seems to be the most difficult. (For more on loving & praying for your enemies, read Pastor Jim Milligan's blog on 02/06). There are many things that Spurgeon points to that can cause someone to say, "he has been with Jesus." But I do believe that kindness, forgiveness and love for one another seem to shout the loudest.

I think both devotions for today go together well. If we are enjoying close communion with Christ and seeking to be like Him, we will not be "leaving our first love." But if we have left, there is only one solution: return to Him and return to His word. Being with Christ changes us. But we will constantly struggle with the ups and downs of the Christian life if our roots are not deep in His word. We become more like Him as we spend time with Him in His word and in prayer. We fight against "leaving our first love" by spending time with Him in His word and in prayer.

O Lord, thank You for never leaving nor forsaking Your children. Cause us to remain close to You, our Savior. Keep us steadfast in Your word and fervent in our prayers. Glorify Your name through Your people. For Christ's sake, Amen.

Labels: Devotional, Morning and Evening, Spurgeon