Living For God Today

Read James 4:13-17

Reflection of Tommy:

As I was sharing with some friends about how busy I was lately with plans and works, I realized, as what James said in today’s passage, I don’t even know what will happen tomorrow. I asked whether I am living each day for God or only for myself. Will I fulfill God’s plan for me if I were to leave this world tomorrow?

Life is short and fragile. Like a mist in the morning that appears for a little while and vanishes into the air (v14). Let not live our life thinking we have lots of remaining time to live for Christ, to enjoy our loved ones or to do what we know we should. Instead, live for God today; living and doing everything in His will, not ours (v15).

Dear Father, thank You for reminding me once more to seek You and Your righteousness first before everything else as the Day is approaching. Thank You for the guidance from the Spirit, leading me in fulfilling Your plan for me; doing everything for Your honor and glory. I pray that I will continue to hold unswervingly to the hope I profess, for You are faithful, and considering how I may spur my brothers on towards love and every good deeds.

The New Man

Read Ephesians 4:17-32

Reflection of Tommy:

How do we truly put off our old self (v22) and to have our minds renewed (v23), putting on a new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (v24)? In today's passage, we can learn some ways to live a changed life as a disciple of Christ.

1. Be truthful all the time (v25)
2. Control your anger (v26)
3. Be hardworking, not idling or dishonest (v28)
4. Serve those in need (v28)
5. Use words that build others up (v29)
6. Not grieving the Spirit with our disobedience (v30)
7. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander (v31)
8. Be compassionate to one another (v32)
9. Forgiving each other (v32)

Dear Father, thank You for reminding me again the difference between the nature of my old self and the powerful transformed life by the Spirit. Teach me to surrender and submit to You daily and diligently. Give me wisdom and discernment in all things that I may truly live for You, fulfilling the will You have for my life. In Jesus' precious Name I pray, Amen.

Sing!

Read 1 Chronicles 16:23-27

"Sing psalms to Him; talk of all His wondrous works!" —1 Chronicles 16:9

Reflection of Tommy:

At times, life's cruel and unforgiving circumstances rob us from the joy and peace we have in God. It's hard to sing praises and be thankful when everything around us doesn't seems to turn out the way we wanted them to be. We questioned why God allows these things to happen and not sparing us from the pain of going through them.

As we reflect on today's passage, we see how we can still give praise to our God during difficult times. Because of what He has done for us through His Son, we can always proclaim the good news and have the reason to be thankful and grateful for despite the circumstances in our lives.

Dear Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy that I can have a close personal relationship with You. Forgive me of my disobedience and slow in listening and learning Your ways. Forgive me also of not being sensitive in allowing the Holy Spirit to work in me, changing me to be more like Christ each day.

Father, I pray that You will change this heart of mine, make it truly repented of my old ways, and resubmit my all to You. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.