August 25 - Ancient Paths

 

“This is what the Lord says:

‘Stand at the crossroads and look;

ask for the ancient paths,

ask where the good way is, and walk in it,

and you will find rest for your souls.

But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’”

(Jeremiah 6:16 NIV)

 

Jesus quoted this passage from Jeremiah in Matthew 11. The tried and true ways of Judah’s ancestors would have led God’s children back to Him. But they thought they knew better than the Creator of the Universe. Sounds familiar to me! I will walk on the ancient paths. I hope you will, too!

August 24 - No Condemnation

 

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation

for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

(Romans 8:1 NIV)

 

The law brings condemnation because it points out, stimulates, and condemns sin. The Christian is no longer under “the law” but controlled by the Holy Spirit. I am united with Christ through faith in Him. I am allowed to enter into the presence of the King only through His blood. When my heavenly Father sees me, He sees His Son, too. I will rejoice in my freedom in Christ, my Brother. I hope you will, too!

August 23 - Help

“Because He Himself suffered when He was tempted,

He is able to help those who are being tempted.”

(Hebrews 2:18 NIV)

 

Jesus experienced every kind of temptation a person can have, and did not sin. He is the only One who could claim sinlessness, because He created it. The Creation messed up His plans, allowed by His perfect love. I cannot grasp that love, but I do not have to. I will thank Him for taking my place of punishment and paying my debt to Him. I hope you will, too! 

August 22 - Holy Intercession

 

“Therefore He is able to save completely

those who come to God through Him,

because He always lives to intercede for them.”

(Hebrews 7:25 NIV)

 

Because Jesus lives forever, He is a permanent priest. He is the ultimate Priest, the High Priest of all creation. It is humbling to know He talks to the Father about me. When I stumble and fall, He picks me up and presents me in His righteousness. I will stand up for Him and thank Him for standing up for me. I hope you will, too!

Channel Buoys

 by Macy Johnson

“Jesus got up, rebuked the wind

and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’

Then the wind died down

and it was completely calm.”

(Mark 4:39 NIV)

 

Buoys are floating markers anchored to the bottom of a body of water. They act like road signs for boats. They mark safe channels, show hidden dangers, and give directions.

August 21 - Agree

 

“For where two or three

come together in my name,

there am I with them.”

(Matthew 18:20 NIV)

 

Jesus told His disciples that if they agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them. Wow! I believe the key word is “agree.” Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can anyone agree with anyone else, especially in spiritual matters. From that point of view, Jesus’ words are simple and easy to accept. I will come together with my brothers and sisters and agree to do God’s will. I hope you will, too!

August 20 - Sabbath Rest

 

“And God blessed the seventh day

and made it holy,

because on it He rested

from all the work of creating that He had done.”

(Genesis 2:3 NIV)

 

Because my Creator rested on the seventh day, so should I. One day a week free of pressure is a gift from my heavenly Father. I will ask Him what He wants me to do with this special day, and every day He gives me. My life is not my own. I will follow His lead and rest and worship Him on the Sabbath. I hope you will, too!