Plenty of Jesus to Go Around

Daily Reading: 2 Timothy 1

Scripture Focus: I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. (2 Timothy 1.3-5)

Devotional Thought: Many of us were blessed to grow up with living examples of faith in Christ.  Many times over the years, I have thought about the lessons I learned about Christ-likeness by observing my parents, aunts, uncles and grandparents.  What a blessing to have that heritage and be able to continue in that tradition, but what a responsibility as well!  We are called to pass our faith on to the next generation and equip them with the scriptural knowledge they will need to face the world’s troubles and temptations.

Some have not had the benefit of a family faith.  How amazing that God would find them where they are and give them the opportunity to respond!  We need to be aware of those in our midst who may not have had the benefit of a Christian heritage and be intentional about sharing with them in a Christ-like way.

Paul constantly prayed for Timothy.  He knew that his time on this earth was short, and men like Timothy were crucial to continue to spread the gospel message around the world long after Paul was gone.  Who are we praying constantly for?  What young believers are we investing our time in so that they can share the love of God with the world long after we have left this earth? There’s plenty of Jesus to go around for everyone!  We don’t need to be stingy and keep his grace to ourselves.  The best way to keep your cup full is to continually let it overflow into those around you.

Chris Miller

Prayer: Lord, whether we are from a family full of faith or we come from spiritual scarcity, your grace reaches us.  Help us, O Lord, to be conduits of that grace now, so that others may know you and grow in you.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 119.121-128

121 I have done what is just and right; do not leave me to my oppressors.

122 Give your servant a pledge of good; let not the insolent oppress me.

123 My eyes long for your salvation and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.

124 Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love, and teach me your statutes.

125 I am your servant; give me understanding, that I may know your testimonies!

126 It is time for the Lord to act, for your law has been broken.

127 Therefore I love your commandments above gold, above fine gold.

128 Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right; I hate every false way.