22nd. September 2020. Daily Devotion
Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,
2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy that was set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
On the surface, a magic eye picture looks like a jumble of designs and colours. By intently focusing your eyes on the picture, suddenly the real heart of the image comes into 3D focus.
Not everyone can see the image in a magic eye picture, but does that mean that the image is not there? For those who can focus deeply into the picture, details become visible. It is a skill that improves with practice
This is true about God. The love and grace of Christ are there for all people, but some do not see it. Those who do see Christ realise that, with time, the more we focus on Him, the more our faith grows; thus, His Image is more evident inside us.
If we focus on only one part of a Magic Eye picture, the entire picture disappears. We have to relax our focus to allow the whole image to emerge. I think the same is true when we focus on one thing, such as one scripture, one job, one problem, one person, or one that isn’t God’s whole. We become filled with fear, anger, confusion, or weakness as Christ’s image of peace, kindness, faithfulness, and strength diminish.
The phrase “Fear not” is mentioned 365 times in the Bible. “Love” is found 57 times in the Gospel of John alone. “Peace” is written 420 times in the Bible. There is no doubt about what Christlike attributes are. We do not serve a God of confusion; we serve a God of apparent precision who brings to our spirit a wholeness and oneness with Him.
The author of our faith will perfect our faith as we keep our focus on Him. God will make clear in 3D focus, His perfect will. We may not yet see absolutely, but we won’t go wrong when our eyes are on Him.
What Can I Do Today?
Holy God, what can I do today to serve you? What may I do with this day you have given me, to show you the love and humility I feel for you? How can I help my fellow man? In the name of Christ, I ask, how can I serve you today? Amen.
To Sustain Faith from Boredom
Lord, sometimes I feel myself growing weary with my faith, with you, with prayer, with everything good and holy in life. I feel a pain where before there was joy and hope. I know you do not want us to feel guilty, but how can I not feel guilty, when I admit to myself that my love for you felt stronger yesterday or last week or last year, than it does now.
Come to me, Holy Spirit, and drive away my apathy. Forgive me for the smallness and selfishness of my mind. Take away this sense of tedium with your Word, your love, the wondrous gift of eternal life; fill me with zeal and hope, knowing that your plans for me are glorious, and all that I have or will ever have comes from you. Amen.
Strength for this Challenging Time
We pray for your love and compassion to abound
as we walk through his challenging season.
We ask for wisdom for those who bear the load
of making decisions with widespread consequences.
We pray for those who are suffering with sickness
and all who are caring for them.
We ask for protection for the elderly and vulnerable
to not succumb to the risks of the virus.
We pray for misinformation to be curbed
that fear may take no hold in hearts and minds.
As we exercise the good sense that you in your mercy provide,
may we also approach each day in faith and peace,
trusting in the truth of your goodness towards us.
~ Unknown
