Our Daily Devo Todd Concienne

Matthew 18:4 "Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God's kingdom" God loves you the way you are, the way He created you. You don't have to be anything more. Often times in this life we spend too much time trying to impress the world around us, seeking earthly acceptance, being something we're not. But there is no need for that. God loves you for who and what you are. And the people of this earth, your true loved ones, they love you for your genuine self as well. So, the next time you find yourself trying to fit in and seeking acceptance ask yourself "Is this who I am supposed to be?". If the answer is no resist the temptation for acceptance and instead listen to the voice in your heart. The voice of your Creator. The closest relationship you have ever had and will ever have. He has been with you every moment of your life. Every beat of your heart, every breath you have ever taken. He created you, He loves you, He accepts you just the way you are. He wants you to be yourself, your simple, genuine self.

Romans 13:13-14 "We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence...Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourself in Christ, and be up and about!" Do you find yourself procrastinating? I know I do from time to time. Especially in doing those things that are not appealing or seem challenging. At the same time I admire those that seem to "get things done". Especially when those things are what most other people seem to avoid doing. Jesus was like that. He was very active in His life bringing about a great change in people and the world. We as Christians, and by Paul's words in today's verse, are called to do the same. To live with a purpose and passion. To be Christ-like in our days, living with an energy that brings about love and joy to this world. It can be difficult work, scary at times. But we mustn't put it off or procrastinate. It is important work to accomplish and we have that work to do.

Philippians 3:13-14 "Brothers and sisters, I myself don't think I've reached it, but I do this one thing: I forget about the things behind me and reach out for the things ahead of me. the goal I pursue is the prize of God's upward call in Christ Jesus" One our most amazing human characters is our desire for purpose and pursuit. We pursue many things throughout our lives but this reading talks to us about the ultimate pursuit. The call, God's call, to Jesus. You see He served as an example for us as to how to live. It may seem like a daunting pursuit, a goal we know we will never reach, at least not in this life, but it is a worthy pursuit none the less. You see, the pursuit of perfection is Our Father's design, He calls us to righteousness. He calls us to build His kingdom through our works and pursuits and to glorify Him in the process.

John 3:16 "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life" God loves you - His love for you is so great that He sent His only Son to this earth to die for your sins and to offer you the priceless gift of eternal life! Now, it is up to you to decide whether or not to accept God's gift. He offers it freely. Will you invite Christ to dwell in your heart? The decision is yours each and every day so choose wisely.

Ephesians 6:7 "Do your work with enthusiasm. Work as if you were serving the Lord, not as if you were serving only men and women." Do you see each day as a glorious opportunity to serve God and to do His will? Are you enthused about life, or do you struggle through each day giving scarcely a thought to God's blessings? Are you constantly praising God for His gifts, and are you sharing His Good News with the world? and are you excited about the possibilities for service that God has placed before you, whether at home, at work, at church, or at school? You should be. You are the recipient of the greatest gift of all, LOVE. And that gift is meant to be shared.

2 Corinthians 7:6 "God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us." If you have ever been touched by the transforming hand of Jesus, you have every reason to live courageously. Still, even as a dedicated Christian, you may find yourself discouraged by the inevitable disappointments and tragedies that occur in our lives. The next time you find your courage tested to the limit, lean upon God's promises. Trust His Son. Remember that God is always near and that He is your protector and your deliverer. When you are worried, anxious, or afraid, call upon Him and accept the touch of His comforting hand. Remember that God rules both mountaintops and valleys - with limitless wisdom and love - now and forever.