February 7

Exodus 26:1-27:21, Matthew 25:1-30, Psalm 31:1-8, Proverbs 8:1-11



Pray: Pray today that God will provide opportunities to practice what we preach, that we would be given the chance to share the love of Christ in a practical way. Maybe it’s a friendly conversation with that person sitting alone at lunch, or possibly paying for the coffee for someone at Starbucks, or maybe it’s being so bold as to engage in a conversation about faith with someone that you have felt a burden for. Whatever way the Holy Spirit leads today, pray for a faithfulness as we strive to be ready for Christ’s return through the life we live today.

Read: The Exodus reading tells of the detailed majesty of what the Tabernacle was to look like. Don’t miss the simple elegance that was built into this Tabernacle building scene. The Tabernacle was the first set-up and tear down campus of a church. I know the Lincolnton and Northside readers out there can appreciate this. God gave Moses specific instructions as to how this House of the Lord was to be built. Can you build it in your mind? Jesus also told today’s parables to clarify further what it means to be ready for His return and how to live until He comes. 

Edify: In the story of the 10 bridesmaids in Matthew 25:1-13, we are taught that every person is responsible for their own spiritual health and well-being. There is a responsibility upon each of us to remain vigilant in our efforts to be well prepared for the day of Christ’s return. The story of the three servants demonstrates for us the necessity of using what God has entrusted to us well. We all have gifts and talents that must be utilized for the good of the Kingdom. It is our responsibility to share and multiply those gifts rather than keep them secret and safe. 

Practice: Psalm 31:3 says, “You are my rock and my fortress.” If we really believe that, then why would we ever fear? We serve an awesome God who wants nothing but the best for His children. We mess that up when we start to chase after our own desires and start trying to do things our way rather than staying grounded in what is best for us, and that is trusting God. What gifts and talents are you hiding away rather than sharing and multiplying? Making ourselves vulnerable in the sharing of our gifts may be scary to begin with, but time after time, Scripture reminds us that God is “a great rock of safety” who wants to celebrate with those who have been “good and faithful servants”.