Devotional Passage
“So he began saying to the crowds who were coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath [of God that is] to come? Therefore produce fruit that is worthy of [and consistent with your] repentance [that is, live changed lives, turn from sin and seek God and His righteousness]. And do not even begin to say to yourselves [as a defense], ‘We have Abraham for our father [and so our heritage assures us of salvation]’; for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children (descendants) for Abraham [for God can replace the unrepentant, regardless of their heritage, with those who are obedient]. Even now the axe [of God’s judgment] is swinging toward the root of the trees; so every tree that does not produce good fruit is being cut down and thrown into the fire.” – Luke 3:7-9
The Father is saying in this New Year: Come to Me with an amenable spirit, open to being transformed. Living a life in Me is a life of perpetual newness. So, do not cleave to or convert back to your old ways as you decide to walk into a new year with Me. Instead, seek My face with an open mind, understanding that this journey with Me requires being transformed by the renewing of your mind. As you begin to spend your time seeking me, please understand that I am focused and fully attentive to you. Your faithfulness has not gone unnoticed in My eyes. I see with an abiding eye because My attention span is infinite. I know you and understand the desires of your heart thoroughly; My thoughts shield you in everlasting love. I also know the plans that I have for your life: plans to prosper you and never harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. So, relinquish control completely. Submit yourself completely to this journey of increasing attentiveness to My Presences and you shall see my salvation and the purpose for your life fulfilled.
Enter the Sanctuary in Prayer
Father, I give myself to You fully. I will no longer be conformed to this world and its superficial values and customs, but I will be transformed and progressively changed by the renewing of my mind. I will focus only on Godly values while maintaining an ethical Godly attitude in all situations, so that I may prove what Your Will is for my life, that which is good and acceptable in Your eyes. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Contributed by: Sharessa Bass
Sharessa currently works for Wells Fargo Bank and is the CEO of The Real Me Foundation. She is a devoted mother of 5, originally from Whiteville NC and is one of 7 siblings. She is a faithful covenant member of The Sanctuary, and is passionate about sharing her faith in a very real way. If this devotional has fed your soul, please share with your friends and family. Click the social share button or leave a comment in the box below for Sharessa.