Tag: Choices

April 28, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Seeds of Tomorrow

Opening Verse

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” – Galatians 6:7

Introduction

The choices we make today set the stage for what we will face tomorrow. This simple truth underpins the spiritual law of sowing and reaping, reminding us that our current actions have future consequences.

Devotional Story

Consider the story of a young man named Michael who dreamed of becoming a chef. Each day, he dedicated time to learning new recipes, practicing his cooking skills, and understanding the art of flavors. His commitment was rooted in his understanding that every step he took was planting seeds for his future.

In contrast, his friend Liam, who shared the same dream, often skipped practice and spent his days in leisure. While it seemed enjoyable in the moment, Liam neglected the hard work necessary for his dream.

Years later, Michael became a renowned chef with his own restaurant, while Liam still struggled to master basic cooking techniques. The difference in their futures was a direct result of their actions in the past.

What This Means

Our lives are like gardens. The seeds we plant—through our habits, decisions, and actions—will grow and produce fruit in the future. If we sow diligence and faithfulness, we will reap success and fulfillment. Conversely, neglect and procrastination yield a harvest of missed opportunities and regret.

Think About This

How are you preparing for your future? Are you planting seeds that will grow into the dreams and goals you cherish?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, guide me to make wise choices today that will sow seeds for a fruitful future. Help me to act with foresight, knowing that each decision I make is planting a future harvest. May I always sow in faith and diligence, trusting in Your guidance and provision. Amen.

Closing Verse

“But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” – 2 Corinthians 9:6

 

October 17, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

The Door to God’s Love

“Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”
– Revelation 3:20 (KJV)

Introduction

Imagine God’s love as a house with an always-open door, inviting everyone in. Sometimes it’s hard to take that step inside, especially if we’re not sure what we’ll find. But when we see people we know living happily in that “house,” it makes us want to join them. The story of Maria and Rosa is a perfect example. It shows us how embracing God’s love can change our lives for the better and how we can be the catalyst for others to do the same.

Devotional Story

Maria and Rosa have been friends for years. They hang out, share laughs, and support each other. Despite their closeness, they lead different lives. Maria is often seen hopping from one party to another, looking for excitement and fun. She thinks that’s where happiness lies.

Rosa, on the other hand, leads a quieter life. She’s always seemed calm, centered, and genuinely happy. And this happiness isn’t tied to her circumstances; she’s like this all the time. Rosa attributes her contentment to her faith in God.

Maria becomes more and more curious about Rosa’s serenity. Why is Rosa so peaceful even when life throws curveballs? Finally, one evening, they sit down for some real talk. Rosa opens up about how her relationship with God has filled her life with a peace that surpasses all understanding.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” – John 14:27 (KJV)

Something clicks for Maria. She feels an internal warmth that she can’t ignore. Inspired by Rosa, Maria decides to explore this avenue. Rosa guides her as she begins praying, attending church, and diving into the Bible for the first time.

Over time, Maria starts experiencing a newfound peace. She feels a deep sense of joy that’s far more satisfying than the temporary thrills she’d been chasing.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

Conclusion

The story of Maria and Rosa is not just a tale of personal transformation but also a lesson for all of us. God’s love is a choice available to anyone who seeks it. We don’t just have to talk about God’s love; we should strive to live it every day.

When people around us see the happiness and peace radiating from our lives, they might become intrigued, just like Maria did. That’s our chance to share the joy that comes from God’s love, guiding them toward a fulfilling life too.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

 Faith Notes

Being an example of God’s love is like being a lighthouse. We help others find their way through the darkness, leading them toward the open door of God’s love. It doesn’t take a grand gesture to make a difference—sometimes, even a small act of kindness can be the spark that ignites someone else’s faith journey.

So remember, even a little light can shine brightly in a dark world. By simply being who we are, living a life filled with love and care, we can guide others into the comforting, loving arms of God. It’s a responsibility, but also a privilege, to share this gift of divine love and joy.

 

October 9, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

The Illusion of Darkness

“Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.”
– Revelation 22:14 (KJV)

Introduction

The dilemma of choosing between the allure of darkness and the lifelong commitment to walking in the light is a struggle we all encounter. Whether consciously or subconsciously, every decision we make leans us towards one or the other. The story of John and Mark illustrates this eternal struggle and shows us that the choices we make have profound implications on our spiritual well-being.

Devotional Story

John and Mark were lifelong friends, but each had chosen a different path. John reveled in worldly pleasures, seeking the next thrill without much thought about its impact on his soul. Mark, however, valued his spiritual journey and treaded carefully, guided by God’s word.

As time passed, John’s life began to unravel. His moments of pleasure left a hollow feeling in his soul, a spiritual emptiness that seemed to grow with every indulgence. Mark watched his friend’s deterioration with a heavy heart.

He approached John one day and shared the words of wisdom:

“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”
– Mark 8:36 (KJV)

This scripture hit John like a ton of bricks. He realized the cost of his choices and felt the weight of the emptiness within him. It was a difficult realization, but also a turning point.

Determined to change, John began his tough journey back to the light. With Mark’s support and the strength found in God’s word, he was able to break free from the shackles of his previous life. And as he did, he found himself not only spiritually rejuvenated but also a beacon of light for others lost in the darkness.

“The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.”
– Proverbs 4:18 (KJV)

Conclusion

The story of John and Mark serves as a stern reminder that the allure of darkness may seem rewarding in the short term, but ultimately leaves us spiritually bankrupt. Darkness can lift us, yes, but only up to a point. It gives us the illusion of elevation while placing a low ceiling above our heads. We may climb, but we never reach the heights we were destined for. Even worse, we become isolated, separating ourselves from the true Source of all LIGHT and TRUTH. True fulfillment and spiritual growth are only found in walking in the LIGHT, following God’s commandments, and being mindful of the impact of our choices.

In making these choices, we not only lift ourselves but also serve as beacons guiding others towards God, fulfilling our role as the salt and light of the Earth.

“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.”
– Romans 13:13 (KJV)

Faith Notes

The verse from Romans 13:13 is a call to moral and ethical living, typically attributed to the Apostle Paul in the New Testament. The verse serves as a moral compass, urging people to adopt a lifestyle of integrity and righteousness.

“Walk honestly, as in the day”:

The metaphor of walking “in the day” suggests living openly and transparently, with nothing to hide. Daylight is often associated with visibility, truth, and goodness.

“Rioting and drunkenness”:

These terms refer to behaviors marked by excess and a lack of self-control, specifically regarding substance abuse and unruly behavior. They symbolize the abandonment of rationality and virtue.

“Chambering and wantonness”:

These archaic terms point toward sexual immorality and unrestrained indulgence in sensual pleasures. They serve as warnings against behaviors considered detrimental to spiritual growth.

“Strife and envying”:

These words refer to social and relational disharmony, resulting from selfishness or jealousy. They act as reminders to avoid toxic emotions that sow discord.

The verse implores us to live in a way that is harmonious with others and pleasing to God, emphasizing the importance of moral choices and their impact on our spiritual well-being. It invites us to shift our focus from worldly vices to a higher, spiritual calling.

May we continue to push back the darkness and illuminate the world with the Holy Light of our Eternal Creator.

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (KJV)

Like in the illustration below, If we trust in the LORD with all our hearts and push back on our own flesh, push back on our own will, then God will collapse the darkness and His light will make our paths straight! Trust God, be the co-pilot, and let Him take control!

October 8, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

Seeds of Transformation

“Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2, KJV)

 Introduction

Micah, a man striving to walk a godly path, found himself in a situation that tested his convictions. The story of a dream about a mansion filled with sin transforming into a garden of light intrigued him and prompted him to reflect deeply on his own life.

Devotional Story

Micah found himself at a grand gala, a space filled with wealth and partying. Though the atmosphere was one of celebration, he felt a disconcerting emptiness. He knew this was not the way, not the life God intended for him.

“Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2, KJV)

Deciding not to engage in the sinful activities around him, Micah made his exit. On his way out, he noticed workers cleaning up—perhaps a symbolic sign for how life’s messes eventually must be confronted and managed.

Once outside, he discovered a tranquil garden. On an ancient stone table lay seeds with an inscription: “Water these seeds and watch them grow into light.” Filled with faith, Micah watered the seeds. They instantly sprouted into magnificent beings of light.

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV)

Conclusion

Micah’s journey serves as a metaphor for the struggles many of us face in modern life. The grand gala, with all its temptations, is symbolic of the broader world that often pulls us away from spiritual focus. Micah’s decision to leave this environment reflects the difficult but necessary choices we must make to align ourselves with a higher spiritual calling.

The seeds in the garden and their transformation into beings of light represent the latent potential within each of us. When we nurture our spiritual selves, we not only transform internally but also have a positive impact on the world around us. Micah’s experience mirrors the Biblical notion of ‘dying to the old self and being reborn in Christ.’

The story aims to reinforce several key Biblical principles, such as the importance of personal transformation (‘be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind’), the idea that actions speak louder than words (‘let your light so shine before men’).

The devotional is a call to action for each of us to examine where we are spiritually and how we can make meaningful changes to grow closer to God. It urges us not just to be hearers of the Word, but doers as well.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, KJV)