A saint of God
The faith of God’s elect and the knowledge of the truth
That is in accordance with godliness. Titus 1:1
Read 2 Corinthians 6:11—18
This evening devotion requires me to comb through my life with discernment. It could have a life-changing outcome. On the one hand I am in Christ, and he is the friend of sinners, so I cannot do other than engage with and befriend and seek out sinners, even rampant sinners, for their blessing. For their good. For the winning of their hearts to Christ. No apologies for that: knowing Christ is what they were made for. On the other, there may be attachments in my life, practices, even ritual practices I engage in regularly, that mute my passion for Christ, relationships that commit me to a life that renders me half-hearted in the things of God. Something in my life may need to be culled. It will probably be something painfully dear to me. It won’t be true love for my neighbour. It would rather be what dims my true love for God.
In great mercy, in great grace, in your holy purpose, dear Father, you have called me and set me apart. You have set your heart upon me before the foundation of the world.[1] You have placed me among the saints.[2] You have devoted me to your purpose. Speak to me tonight about what needs to be removed, what impedes your purpose in me. Let me then be free to find your purpose gladly. May your direction for my life be my central passion, joy and pleasure.
[1] Ephesians 1:4
[2] Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 2 Corinthians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1; Philippians 1:1; Colossians 1:2