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Read 2 Corinthians 4:1-6 Since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2 Corinthians 4:1 The way we look at our ministry helps to determine how we will fulfill it. If we look on serving Christ as a burden instead of a privilege, we will be a drudge and do only what is required of us. Some people even look upon Christian service as a punishment from God. When Paul considered the fact that he was a minister of Jesus Christ, he was overwhelmed by the gr

Read John 15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:15, ESV Reflect For whom would I lay down my life? How would I describe my relationship with God--close and comfortable or distant and formal? How does the fact that God considers me His friend affect my view of our relationship? Think about what Jesus is telling us he

Read Philippians 2 Philippians chapter two, verse three, exhorts us to do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. This verse goes against the grain, I think of everything in me, that is my sinful nature. I am so tempted to do so much from selfish ambition. Even when I'm doing what I think are good things, kinds things, for others, I'm still prone to think, "How is this going to affect the way they view me?" I've

Read Hebrews 5:1-6 Every high priest is selected from among men and is appointed to represent them in matters related to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.... No one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by God. Hebrews 5:1 , 4 When I became pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church in Covington, Kentucky, it was necessary for me to go to the city hall and be bonded. Otherwise, I would not have the authority to perform marriages. I had to show my ordination c

Read 1 Peter 2 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls. 1 Peter 2:24-25, ESV Reflect If running toward God is how we grow spiritually--especially in times of insurmountable challenges--then what is holding me back from doing that?Why does it sometimes feel like I am taking two steps

Read Hebrews 3:1-11 Fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess. He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was faithful in all God's house. Hebrews 3:1-2 Jesus Christ is not only the Apostle; He is also the High Priest. Moses was a prophet who on occasion served as a high priest. That title belonged to his brother Aaron. In fact, Jesus Christ has the title "great high priest" (4:14). As the Apostle, Jesus Christ represented God t

Read Psalm 94 When I thought, "My foot slips," your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul. Psalm 94:18-19, ESV Reflect When my foot is slipping--and temptation is overwhelming me--do I immediately return to Jesus?When I feel like I can't handle my worries and my problems on my own, do I turn to Jesus for solace?When I feel God's hand of correction, do I accept that as a sign of His love? It's easy to beat o