Today’s Verse – Philippians 3:17
Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. —Philippians 3:17 Thoughts on Today’s Verse… Some critics of preaching and preachers say, “I would rather see a sermon any day than hear one.” I’m not distressed because people want to “see a sermon.” The life of those preaching should be consistent with what they preach. Some don’t “practice what they preach,” and their hypocrisy discredits the message of Christ in the ears of our critics. A leader’s primary tool of influence is a life of faithfulness, character, and compassion. Whether the leader serves in politics, business, church, or family, godly influence is necessary! All who seek to influence others toward JESUShaped living MUST practice what we preach. Why? Because most folks need to both hear and see the message before it becomes a part of their daily lifestyle. My Prayer… LORD God Almighty, please forgive me, equip me, and make me fit for your service. Please help me, dear Father, as I try to live a life worth imitating as I seek to lead others to Jesus and JESUShaped living. I ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength because I cannot lead with faithfulness, character, and compassion without the Spirit’s power and grace transforming my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
Today’s Verse – John 3:16-17
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. —John 3:16-17 Thoughts on Today’s Verse… Jesus came to save the world. Jesus came to save you. Jesus came to save me. Why? Because of the Father’s love for us! Don’t let human commentary on this clear truth distort the reality and depth of God’s love for you! God sent the Son to save the world — that includes saving you and me — and he did it through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection! My Prayer… Holy and Righteous Father, thank you for your love. I know I didn’t earn or deserve it, but thank you. Until I see you face to face and express my appreciation and praise for you in your presence, please know my heartfelt gratitude and my deep and abiding joy because of your plan, your Son, and your salvation. I thank you in the name of Jesus, my Savior. Amen. All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
Today’s Verse – Genesis 3:15
[The LORD God said to the serpent,] “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” —Genesis 3:15 Thoughts on Today’s Verse… God’s words are his curse upon the serpent who tempted and lured Eve and Adam to sin. Satan is the personality behind the serpent. Even in this curse, even in recognition of a struggle between the woman’s offspring and Satan, even in the face of destruction and decay unleashed in God’s once perfect world, the LORD embeds the promise of his better future for us. That future comes to us in Jesus! Satan appeared to win the battle at the Cross, but after three days passed, the LORD’s resurrection changed everything. Jesus’ triumph over death left Satan powerless to make death the final word for Jesus or for us. The Evil One’s most strategic plan to bring damnation on us all left the old snake with a crushed head at the doorway of Jesus’ empty tomb! What follows is a video that was originally used on Sunday, March 15, 2020. This was the beginning of COVID social distancing practices and was part of our ministry to bless God’s people during this dark time when many could not assemble. We will keep the ToGather videos with our devotionals for your added blessing! Video Commentary… ToGather Worship Guide | More ToGather Videos My Prayer… Thank you, dear Father, for taking the stinger out of death and establishing an assured hope for my future. I believe that Jesus rose from the dead and that you will raise me and bless me with life forever in your presence. For this enduring victory, I praise you in Jesus’ name. Amen. All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.