Into the Heart

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. ­Philippians 4:8

Within the post “Further the Faith and Knowledge of the Truth” explained is the purpose of Paul’s ministry. Also brought out are the necessary qualities of Christian leaders and their responsibility to false teachers.

Take inspiration from the video Heart of Worship by Matt Redman. Your Faith rest on the hope of eternal life; supported by the love of God and the gift of His Son. May this attribute of your soul be with you always and direct you to think of things excellent, honorable, and disciplined. 
 

 

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Further the Faith and Knowledge of the Truth

Now the journey takes us to Titus which is a letter written by Paul to Titus who was in Crete to establish churches in that part of the world. In Titus 1 Paul tells us what he feels his purpose is by giving himself the title of servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith and knowledge of the truth in hope of offering salvation to those he comes in contact with.

He explains to Titus some qualities of Christian leaders including being blameless, being faithful to their spouse, a good parent to their children, self-controlled, disciplined, and upright in the eyes of those around them.

Then Paul goes on to explain to Titus a Christian leader’s responsibility to false teachers. These false teachers of Crete were teaching what they should not teach and disrupting everyone for their own personal gain. He told Titus the need to hold them to account and lead them towards sound faith.

This day with God will be amazing because we will take in the Word found in today’s passage and discover ways to apply the values learned in our own life. Here is a link to an index of all devotionals. Link

Things will fall into place because of His grace. Because of the Savior, there is a change in behavior; following where He leads and doing good deeds; accepting the truth and teaching our youth; learning His ways and giving Him praise.

Just as Paul had a purpose, we too have a purpose. Our faith rest on the hope of eternal life and is supported by accepting Christ as our Savior. May this attribute give us power and direct us to thoughts of excellence, honor, and discipline. Amen

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Instruction

In 2 Corinthians 12:11-21, Paul shows his love for the Corinthians. It is a love similar to parents loving their children; postponing what they would like for the needs of their children. Paul had no self-interest but only concern for the Corinthians well-being. This poem was written to inspire this same kind of love in present times for future generations.

Mark Shields's avatarStep Ahead

From older to younger
There is this need
To show the Way
And how to proceed.

To give instruction
For the future
Of a better way
And clearer picture.

No more discord,
Anger or arrogance
But only seeking
The thing of relevance.

By looking for ways
Of being kind;
Loving the Lord
With heart, soul, and mind

Then loving your neighbor
As one of your own
So no one ever feels
Sad and alone.

Poem by Mark Shields – © 07-11-2019

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True Value

But Christ has shown me that what I once thought was valuable is worthless. Nothing is as wonderful as knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. – Philippians 3:7-8

The post “Treasure that Last Forever” points out the value of the Scripture. If you get your information from the Scripture, you are assured of true teaching.

Rather than be dominated by the pursuit of worldly riches, be freed by the treasures found in the Scripture which are useful now and forever.

Each day, ask for Jesus. The rewards of this world ultimately have very little value but as this song highlights, Jesus has great value: Give Me Jesus by Jeremy Camp. 
 

 

Index of devotionals

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Treasure that Last Forever

In 1 Timothy 6, Paul gives the characteristics of false teachers which include envy, strife, malicious talk, and controversies. Their motives are for their own gain of power and money. Their teachings result in minds deprived of the truth and their religion is a means to personal financial gain.

The motive for a Christian differs from false teachers in that it is for the long term which supports characteristics like righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. The aim is for goodwill, harmony, and encouragement with a high value put on each individual. The sharing of truth for the benefit of all.

Daily study of Scripture is very important since the things of God are what truly satisfies the soul for eternity. We spend so much of our time accumulating money and the things it will buy during our lifetime. Money in itself is not bad but if the pursuit of money is our chief aim in life, then we miss out on what is most important. The reward is not worldly gain but a treasure that last forever.

This day with You Lord will be amazing because we are accumulating a treasure that last forever.  We seek You every day and in You we believe. We are thankful for Your provision; grateful for all we receive. We are content with what You provide in Your Word and the opportunity to share with others this treasure. Amen.

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