31 JAN 23 Tuesday: A Closer Walk Devotional
“Have I now become your enemy because I am telling you the truth? I feel as if I’m going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives.” Galatians 4:16, 19
One of the most difficult things in a leader’s life, whether you lead one or one hundred, is the pain of defense and development of disciples. Paul was dealing with his spiritual children that were being led astray by false teachers that were baiting them with good things. Their good was only there to get them in, but not something that would last.
As a new believer, you don’t know the plethora of enemies that are in the community and even in the church. Sound doctrine, established rhythms, and wise counsel is a must. If you have that, you will recognize where the issues are and the enemy at hand. Today, we have the same issues that Paul and the church at Galatia had. Unfortunately we are bombarded with false teaching and enemies on television and social media.
We have to help our spiritual children to develop quicker than in previous years. It is painful to watch them have to go through hostility, persecution, and in some places in the world death. Being a disciple of Jesus has its challenges, but the Lord is always there walking with you through it. If you or your spiritual children are not experiencing these trials, then you probably are not living for Jesus or are following false teachers. Take responsibility for your maturity in Jesus.
Do you get angry with those that tell you the truth?
Lord, we face a barrage of enemies and false teachers on every front as we live into the mission of your Son. Empower us to combat these foes with your word and prayer. Give us wisdom as we raise up new disciples of Jesus to be light in this dark world. Help us not to grow deaf to the truth and to those that you have put in our lives to develop us. Give us the tools we need to be the people you have made us to be. In your great name, amen.
Reading Plan: Psalm 61, 62; Isa. 52:1-12; Gal. 4:12-20; Mark 8:1-10
Daily Office Year 1
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