In Romans 12:2, we read: “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God” (CSB). This word “conformed” means that you identify with or that you look similar to something because you follow … Continue reading Do Not Be Conformed
Tag: love people
A Greater Concern
Today’s verse is a hard cookie to swallow. Philippians 2:4 says: “Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests” (Philippians 2:4 TPT). When we are born, we are all about the “me” of the world. I want fed. I need a diaper change. I … Continue reading A Greater Concern
Repair What is Broken
Jesus desires harmony among believers. Perfect harmony. He prayed for us to be made complete, to be of one mind, united together (John 17:20-23). Paul echos this in 2 Corinthians 13:11: “Finally, beloved friends, be cheerful! Repair whatever is broken among you, as your hearts are being knit together in perfect unity. Live continually in … Continue reading Repair What is Broken
The Building of Love
In 1 Corinthians 8:1, we read: “Now let me address the issue of food offered in sacrifice to idols. It seems that everyone believes his own opinion is right on this matter. How easily we get puffed up over our opinions! But love builds up the structure of our new life” (TPT). The Greek word … Continue reading The Building of Love
Constant Interest
The NIV translates the first part of today’s verse to say, “Share with the Lord's people who are in need.” The New Living Translations says, “When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them.” The ESV says, “Contribute to the needs of the saints.” Share. Be ready to help. Contribute. This is what … Continue reading Constant Interest
Outdo Yourselves
It is easy to get into the habit of doing the bare minimum. Today’s verse reminds us to, “Be devoted to tenderly loving your fellow believers as members of one family. Try to outdo yourselves in respect and honor of one another” (Romans 12:10 TPT). The Bible is clear: the body of Christ is one … Continue reading Outdo Yourselves
Wearing a Mask
Yesterday’s devotion was all about love for one another. Romans 12:9 says, “Let the inner movement of your heart always be to love one another, and never play the role of an actor wearing a mask. Despise evil and embrace everything that is good and virtuous” (TPT). Today, we will continue to look at the … Continue reading Wearing a Mask
Inner Movement of Heart
The Bible is very clear on the importance of love. I have this phrase on loop in my head daily: Love God. Love people. Isn’t that what we are all commanded? John 15:12 goes even further: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you” (NIV). Jesus tells his disciples to love … Continue reading Inner Movement of Heart
The Merit of Observing
Many of us learn from our parents, our teachers, and society in general that if you do good things, you earn good things. This is somewhat true. I know that I have earned good grades for doing homework. I know I have a decent driving record for following the rules. I have had many opportunities … Continue reading The Merit of Observing
Peripheral Issues
Today I’m wearing a shirt that says, “Keep moving forward.” I purchased this shirt because I often would write or preach the phrase, “Keep pressing forward,” so this shirt was destined to be worn by me. The concept of moving forward, pressing forward, is all about direction and movement. The direction is straight ahead. Despite … Continue reading Peripheral Issues