February 21, 2018 | Keluarga Allah Daily Devotional
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THE SOUL Ephesians 4:11-24
TODAY'S RHEMA Ephesians 4:13 "until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."
"Christianity is not a religion, but a personal relationship with God." This famous slogan has long been circulating among God's children. However, as we continue to echo it, have we known what it means to have a personal relationship with God? When talking about the closeness of the relationship between man and God, the story of Enoch comes to mind. The Bible clearly records that he lived in close association with God (Gen 5: 22,24). Interestingly, in the English Bible, this familiar "hanging out" phrase is "walking" (KJV) or "walking obediently" (NIV). This provides an understanding that our personal relationship with God means we live with Him. On the one hand, there is intimacy, on the other hand, there is obedience.
As we walk, there are certainly some steps we must take. God also wants to continue to move us forward. We must not let our spiritual life stop at one point because we feel comfortable being a baby Christian. From day to day, we must grow more fully in the character of Christ, love God and others more and shine more for His glory.
In our church, we have the Scheme of Spiritual Journey. The first step begins with accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior. Next, we are incorporated in worship, cell groups, water baptized, and become members of the Family of God. Next, we must be discipled through SOM, Encounter, and ESBC. In fact, we need to take steps to get involved in the ministry. As we grow older, we will be sent to reach out to the lost, open up cell groups and multiply them. As we progress, faithfully stepping forward in our spiritual life, no matter how difficult the journey is, God will give us the crown of heaven and we will reign with him (Matthew 25:21). This is the will of God for every believer.
REFLECTION Saudara Terkasih, Christianity is a SPIRITUAL JOURNEY with God, that is why there must be SPIRITUAL PROGRESS that you experience every day.
APPLICATIONS 1. Have we been faithful in going through the steps in our spiritual journey? What stage are you right now? 2. Why do we have to experience spiritual development every day? 3. What steps can you take starting from now to walk closer to the Lord?
TODAY'S PRAYER "Beloved Father in Heaven, I give You thanks, because You will not break a bruised reed, and you will not snuff out a smoldering wick, but You have given me new strength from day to day, so I can walk closer with and stronger in Your presence. In the name of Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen."
YEARLY BIBLE READING Isaiah 23-27
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