Devotional for Saturday, January 15, 2022
Morning 1 John 4:15-18
Noon Psalms 3
Evening Psalms 37:5
The words “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” marked the essence of the message of John the Baptist. The best gift we can give to those who have not known saving grace is to tell them what is to come, remind them of the second coming of the Lord, invite them to repentance, and warn them of the inevitability of God’s just judgment. When preaching the gospel, it is necessary to begin by speaking of judgment and death, which provokes fear in those who are sensitive to the calling of the Lord. In this sense, fear is needed to lead us to the knowledge of the truth. But we understand through biblical revelation that fear precedes love, a superior feeling found in its purest and most perfect form only in Christ. Fear can lead us to Christ, but we do not usually fear those who love us, much less someone who loves us enough to die on our behalf. The love of Christ is capable of giving us life and eliminating fear. Trust and love for the Lord must be our motivation.
Written by Yoandry Jimenez
Translated by Stacy Martinez
Morning 1 John 4:15-18
15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
Noon Psalms 3
1 Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.
2 Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
3 But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
4 I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
5 I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
7 Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
8 Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.
Evening Psalms 37:5
Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
Prayer Guide: [E.U. Diócesis Oeste-Kingwood] and [E.U. Diócesis Norte-Columbia, CS]
Annual Bible reading: Genesis 47, 48, 49, 50, Exodus 1
