WIDER AND DEEPER

Each day seems to bring a new way for us to wander off course. The Christian life is not difficult; it’s impossible. Need proof? Consider the Everest-level standard set in the Sermon on the Mount.

“Whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment” (Matthew 5:22). Or “Whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (verse 28). “Whoever slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other” (verse 39). “Love your enemies, bless those who curse you” (verse 44). Exactly how can we fulfill these commands? What hope do we have?

The same hope Jacob did: grace. “Though sin is shown to be wide and deep, thank God his grace is wider and deeper still!” (Romans 5:20 PHILLIPS). God never gives up on you.

Devotion by Max Lucado | The Almighty Jehovah | https://thealmightyJehovah.com

Where Joseph Stood

On the night when Jesus was born, I wonder if Joseph prayed, “Father, this all seems so bizarre. The angel you sent? Any chance you could send another?”

You’ve stood where Joseph stood. Each of us knows what it’s like to search the night for a light. Not outside a stable, but perhaps outside an emergency room or the manicured grass of a cemetery. We’ve asked our questions. We’ve wondered why God does what he does. If you’re asking what Joseph asked, let me urge you to do what Joseph did: obey. He didn’t let his confusion disrupt his obedience.

What about you? You have a choice: to obey or disobey. Because Joseph obeyed, God used him to change the world. Can he do the same with you? Will you be that kind of person? Will you serve, even when you don’t understand?

Out on a Limb

”After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:18 NKJV).

Joseph was perched firmly on his branch in the tree. Predictable and solid, Joseph had no intention of leaving it. That is, until he was told to go out on a limb. “Conceived by the Holy Spirit? Come on! Who will believe me?” Pride told him not to do it, but God told him to do it.

Have you been called to got out a limb for God? I have a feeling you can relate to Joseph. One foot in your will and one foot in his. His or yours? Disrupting, isn’t it? You can bet it won’t be easy. Limb-climbing has never been. Ask Joseph. Or better yet, ask Jesus! He knows better than anyone the cost of hanging on a tree.

WIDER AND DEEPER

WIDER AND DEEPER

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Where Joseph Stood

Out on a Limb

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