Next Steps Devo – February 7
We live in a world dominated by self-promotion, where incessantly evaluating our accomplishments and contributions becomes an unending endeavor. This pursuit is both draining and strangely captivating. Our innate inclination craves affirmation. We are seeking satisfaction from whatever drips of praise are available.
This self-centered ideology can seep into our relationship with God if we are not vigilant. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “Yes, I was saved by grace through faith, but now I must earn and sustain this gift.”
Have you considered what you’ve done for God lately? Did you forget to read the Bible this morning or postpone your Wednesday devotion to Thursday? Shame be upon you and your family!
This mindset, no matter how we try to disguise it, results in a religious experience as exhausting as what the world promotes. It stands in direct opposition to Gospel freedom. The constant question lingers: What have you done for God? Yet, when we contemplate spiritual disciplines, we discover that when practiced sincerely, they unveil more about Jesus to our hearts. The deeper our understanding of Him, the more our lives reflect His transformative power. Through this transformation, we find freedom, joy, and purpose. We can rest not in our own efforts, but in God’s work on our behalf.
Let’s pray: God, I am thankful for your grace! I am prone to forget and turn away from it, but I appreciate your patience. I am grateful that my failures and shortcomings do not negate your grace; instead, they serve as reminders of its glory. Shape my heart to desire that every moment and action in life unveils more about who you are. You are good, and I am grateful. Amen.