November 30, 2011
By the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain . . . —1 Corinthians 15:10
The way we continually talk about our own inabilities is an insult to our Creator. To complain over our incompetence is to accuse God falsely of having overlooked us. Get into the habit of examining from God’s perspective those things that sound so humble to men. You will be amazed at how unbelievably inappropriate and disrespectful they are to Him. We say things such as, “Oh, I shouldn’t claim to be sanctified; I’m not a saint.” But to say that before God means, “No, Lord, it is impossible for You to save and sanctify me; there are opportunities I have not had and so many imperfections in my brain and body; no, Lord, it isn’t possible.” That may sound wonderfully humble to others, but before God it is an attitude of defiance.
Conversely, the things that sound humble before God may sound exactly the opposite to people. To say, “Thank God, I know I am saved and sanctified,” is in God’s eyes the purest expression of humility. It means you have so completely surrendered yourself to God that you know He is true. Never worry about whether what you say sounds humble before others or not. But always be humble before God, and allow Him to be your all in all.
There is only one relationship that really matters, and that is your personal relationship to your personal Redeemer and Lord. If you maintain that at all costs, letting everything else go, God will fulfill His purpose through your life. One individual life may be of priceless value to God’s purposes, and yours may be that life.
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November 30, 2011
Journal Entry for Today-JDV
Lord, Thank you for reminding me through this devotional and music that it does not matter what I think I am or am not. It does not matter what I have and have not done or said. My position in you is not dependent on my contribution. Your sacrifice was enough and You said it is finished. Thank you for this reminder.
And God says…”Jesus has paid it all. And yes, it is finished. The enemy would like you to believe that you must contribute something; so often you feel compelled to contribute good works, bible study and prayer to the case of your spiritual wellbeing. And while those are all good things, they cannot and do not bring you closer to Me. The sacrifice of Jesus is enough. Simply focus on Jesus and what He did and you will always find your peace and place in the kingdom of God.
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