Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- December 12, 2012
“You will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.” Luke 1:76-77
Followers of Jesus have the unique opportunity and calling—like John the Baptist—to introduce people to Jesus. The bondage of sin and sorrow can be lifted by belief in the Lord. Yes, outside of the Savior, the soul is secluded and exiled from intimacy with Almighty God. But there is a promised land of peace and forgiveness that Christians can announce to the spiritually needy. An introduction to Jesus opens beautiful vistas of faith.
However, our integrity is fundamental to our faith expression. Like Christ’s faithful forerunner John, it is from the Spirit’s fullness that we have moral authority and spiritual support to plant seeds of hope in hurting hearts. Moreover, it’s out of our humility and compassion that we confront injustice and remind offenders of God’s call to repentance. The Christmas season is an ideal time to talk of the ideals Christ came to live and die for.
“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.” 1 Timothy 1:15
Are you a follower of Jesus worth following? If not, perhaps now is the time to join a support group, install pornographic protection software, go to marriage counseling or break off a relationship. In a word, repent. Your ability to effectively introduce people to Jesus is only limited by your consistent life for Christ. Therefore, make sure the quality of your character keeps up with the quantity of your spiritual conversations.
You have the cure for the terminal disease of sin. Hence, your knowledge of salvation is not to be kept to yourself, but prayerfully shared with others. The spirit of this Christmas season is an optimal time to give the gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit. Your part is to introduce seekers to Jesus—your heavenly Father’s part is to draw them to faith. Like a marriage matchmaker you receive great joy by introducing others to Christ!
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them.” John 6:44
Prayer: Heavenly Father, use me to introduce others to saving faith in Jesus.
Related Readings: Isaiah 40:3; Jeremiah 31:3; Luke 1:17; Acts 8:30-39
Post/Tweet today: The Christmas season is an ideal time to talk of the ideals Christ came to live and die for. #Christmas
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