Blessings!
Today’s Promise is 1 Peter 4:6 NKJV:
“For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.”
Devotion:
There are many who call themselves by the name of Christ, yet are as dead spiritually as those who have never heard the Gospel. It all comes down to pride. An unwillingness to let go of things in our lives that prevent the fullness of God from dwelling in us. In this case, “lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries,” according to Peter.
Our ability to mature spiritually and carry more of God’s glory lies in our reaction to being convicted of behaviors and attitudes that grieve the Holy Spirit. It is His job to show us , whether directly, or through other believers, when we stray from His path. This is vital to our growth in order to avoid causing a gap in His protective hedge and giving the enemy legal access to our lives.
A believer intent on growing spiritually and enlarging his or her capacity for more of God will humble himself or herself, repent, and be restored. Someone who takes offense to conviction and denies the need to change is not one who truly believes. Whether the rebuke comes from the Holy Spirit or from a fellow believer, it stings. The difference is the pain of the repentant heart brings salvation and the joy of the Lord, whereas the grief of the rebellious heart follows him or her into eternity (2 Cor. 7:10).
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the conviction of Your Holy Spirit! This is the way to life and Your fullness living within me, and I want it! I know that it will hurt when You correct me, but please give me a spirit of humility, in Jesus’ name, that I may be free from anything that keeps me from more of You. For I know that You are compassionate and faithful to turn my mourning into joy. Amen.
Have a victorious day in the Lord!
Rebecca
