Published 1/3/20
Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-8
"Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you--unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me."
Reflect
What helps you grow spiritually? What is the greatest path to a deeper faith?
There are five key ways through which we can have a fresh encounter with Jesus--through our trials; through moments in the Word; through service; through mountaintop experiences and events that light a fire in us; and through whispers from God's Spirit that lead to times of repentance, hearing Him more clearly, and most of all, seeing our Savior.
The Bible encourages us to ask, seek, and knock (Matthew 7:7). Tell God you want to see Him as He really is right in the midst of your mundane circumstances or the chaos and changes going on in your life. This kind of seeking the face of God, not just facts about God--looking for God Himself, not just for what He can do for us--is no small thing.
God loves a relentless seeker! He promises that those who seek Him will find Him: "If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you," says the Lord" (Jeremiah 29:13-14 NLT).
Pray
Lord, I want to grow closer to You. Guide my heart--and my steps. Amen.