Devotion for August 9, 2021

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

Not everyone who starts the race finishes it. Paul writes: “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things … they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run … not with uncertainty … I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself … become disqualified” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). Paul isn’t talking about his salvation here; that was a settled issue. He’s talking about his heavenly reward, and these particular words should make you stop and think: “Lest … I myself … become disqualified.”

Here are some things that will cause you to stumble on your journey. As you read, pause to meditate over each one before moving on:

  1. Failure to read God’s Word and pray every day. We all have the same 24 hrs. What else do we spend the most time reading or watching?
  2. Saying no to God when He deals with you about a specific area in your life. This places you first over God.
  3. Moral failure stemming from wrong habits and relationships. These come between you and a Godly relationship.
  4. Allowing doubt and fear to cripple you. This is a tool of Satan.
  5. Wasting time on frivolous pursuits instead of focusing on the “one thing” God has called you to do. These are activities we choose perpetually over God.
  6. Succeeding in your career and failing at home. Wrong priorities.
  7. Not sowing your treasure, talent, and time into God’s kingdom, resulting in a lack of resources to fulfil His will for your life. The list could go on ad infinitum.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, Search me, O God, and know my heart … see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Stay encouraged!

Pastor Mike

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Pastor Bailey
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