Devotion for September 19, 2023

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honour God with your bodies.” (1 Corinthians 6:19,20)

“It’s my body, and I can do with it what I want.” Ever heard that statement spoken or seen it lived out?

There is a glaring issue in our 21st-century world — “sexuality” that defies God’s created order and design. Contemporary thinking might have us believe we can be whatever we want to be. Modern medical advances, hormone therapy, open or pre-marital relationships, and other factors have all combined to tempt us to believe that our Creator God and his word are obsolete authorities in this most personal aspect of our lives.

There is huge diversity in how people view their sexuality and, even more so, how they express it publicly. I understand that the Christian church isn’t immune from having to deal with these issues within its own walls and family networks. However, one perspective that I believe needs to be front and center is that all human beings need Jesus as their Lord and Savior, who came into this messy world to forgive and redeem us from any path that would eternally separate us from God’s love.

How increasingly hard it has become to speak God’s truth in love with people who have another perspective about their sexuality.

When St. Paul says, “I have the right to do anything, you say — but not everything is beneficial” (verse 12), I hear God’s wisdom speaking. It is a call to prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to infill us, inform our choices, and honor God with our bodies. After all, God knows what is best for us; so, some humility to accept His guidance and authority is to do His will.

Prayer

Lord, I believe in Your promises and accept Your Word to be my guide in this life. Send Your strength and mercy down to me so that I may resist the work of Satan to tear down that faith. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Pastor Bailey Avatar

Articles: 1725