Daily Devotion (August 11, 2024)
Philippians 4:11–14 (NKJV)
11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content:
12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things, I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
14 Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress.
Living the Christian life is not a bed of roses. Paul Being a religious person did not suffer. But when he turned his life over to Christ, he discovered a life of suffering for Christ. (Most will not understand this. Paul learned to be satisfied with God’s call in his life. The persecutor became the persecuted.
What was the lesson he learned? Paul learned to be content in all things. The once rich and powerful learned what it meant to be poor and weak. He knew God was in control. The lesson learned was not taught overnight. He learned it day by day following God’s call in his life.
As I type this a text came in. I share this…” Not all is lost, God’s got you. Despite the darkness around him, Lot stayed true to his faith. When destruction loomed, God sent angels to rescue him, knowing that even in our darkest moments, His mercy shines through. Lot’s story is a beautiful reminder that when we stay steadfast in faith, God leads us to safety and new beginnings. Trust in Him, for He is always with you, guiding and protecting you, no matter what.” Thank you, Bobby, for sending this at just the right time.
The Apostle Paul learned this lesson well. God calls us to do His purpose. We have a responsibility to carry out His calling in our lives. Paul knew he did not need God’s strength to live a mediocre life. He did need God’s strength to carry out God’s purpose. Few professing Christians experience the strength of God’s calling. They never move beyond just praying the “sinner’s prayer.” They never allow God to work in their lives. They just go through the motions. Nothing is worse than an empty, shallow faith. You never know the power of God without trusting Him while going through the fire.
Proverbs 3:5–8 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil.
8 It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.