For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son . . . . John 3:16a
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
The salvation story of Jesus Christ reaches around the world. So that the readers of our Daily Devotion may see the power of the Savior on a global scale, we have asked the volunteers of our International Ministry Centers to write our Friday devotions. We pray that the Spirit may touch your day through their words.
In Christ, I remain, His servant and yours,
Kenneth R. Klaus
Speaker of The Lutheran Hour
Have you ever contemplated God's love for us? We often hear the words "God loves you," but do we ever consider what it means? Can we ever realize just how much He actually does love us?
Take a look at the Old Testament and you will be impressed at the relationship between God and Israel. God loved His people as a bridegroom loves his bride-and more so. When they were faithful and obedient, God loved them with a love filled with blessings. When they strayed, He continued to love them, albeit with a sad love. Even His punishments were sent as a reminder of His love and as a call to repentance.
I consider myself fortunate to be alive in this time after Christ's life, death, and resurrection. Christ died for us and took upon Himself all the anger and punishment our sins deserved. In return, His sacrifice and resurrection enable us to stand before the Lord, clothed in Jesus' blood-bought forgiveness. That is why, in gratitude, we try not to hurt Him by unfaithful living and disobedient ways. His love remains, but it is a sad love when we stumble and fall away from Him, when we become rebellious.
The Lord wants and is willing to supply all your need. He wants to make your life complete. By the Holy Spirit's power, live in His love, trust Him, and walk with Him every day. Yes, it can be a struggle to leave behind sinful behavior and strive to live as Children of Grace. On the other hand, it is what the Savior asks of us. It's what people do when they know God sent His Son so that they will not perish, but have eternal life.
THE PRAYER: Thank you, Father, for providing Jesus, the only Sacrifice necessary to wash away our sins. Send Your Holy Spirit so I may be empowered to honor Him, follow Him, and love Him as a bride loves her husband. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Biography of Author:
Lena Pfitzinger was born in Germany and moved to South Africa at age four. She lived for nine years in Botswana and five in South Africa. Her father is a missionary and a pastor.
To learn more about our International Ministries, click here or visit www.lhmint.org.
Today's Bible Readings: Isaiah 23-25 Ephesians 5:17-23
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