Tag: examples

Daily Devotions

Daily Devotions: November 28, 2014

randymcpheron

Today’s Bible reading is 3 John

(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)

We meet all kinds of people in our service to the Lord. In his third book John introduces us to three characters. First, there is Gaius. John prayed for his friend Gaius that he might be in as good of health as his soul. Gaius was a man of great spiritual strength. Second, John describes Diotrephes, a selfish man who was responsible for hindering the work of the apostles and the church. Diotrephes liked to put himself first and he loved being in charge. John warned him and cautioned the church not to imitate the behavior of evil men. The third person John introduces us to is Demetrius. He was a credible witness. God calls upon us to follow godly examples like Demetrius, and to defend the faithful when they are resisted and assaulted by those who would hinder the work through their selfish agendas. Stand for what is right, defend those who do right, and avoid those who disrupt the fellowship.

Prayer: “Dear Father, may we be discerning as we interact with various personalities in the church, give us courage to defend one another and may You expose those who hinder the church. In Jesus name. Amen.”

Randy J. McPheron

Daily Devotions

Daily Devotions: September 4, 2014

randymcpheron

Today’s Bible reading is Philippians chapter 2

(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)

A church ought to shine as a bright light in this dark world. When a church shines its light it makes the heart of God glad. We shine by loving one another, working together with one mind and purpose, and by having the mind of Christ. The mind of Christ is not selfish, nor does it try to impress others, but it looks out for the interests of others and for the church as a whole. The Christian is bright light when he or she is willing to suffer so that others might hear the Gospel. What are you and your church willing to do in order that others might hear the Gospel? Paul’s life was poured out in order to advance the Gospel. He said, “Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.” Timothy also ministered with Paul and truly had the church’s best interest at heart. Paul said, “For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.” (Philippians 2:20-21) Paul loved Timothy like a son. He had the mind of Christ! Epaphroditus was another companion to Paul in the ministry. He shined like a bright light and became sick unto death, but God spared him. Paul said, “Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life” (Philippians 2:29-30a) Paul loved Epaphroditus like a brother. He had the mind of Christ. These are our examples and bright lights in a dark world. Let your light shine and be a light in a dark place today!

Prayer: “Jesus, make us a bright light for Your glory today, and give us the mind of Christ. In Jesus name. Amen.”

Randy J. McPheron