December 17, 2010

Today we read: 2 Peter 1-3, John 1

Scripture: John 1:9 - The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.

Observation: Jesus is described here as a light in the darkness (see also Isaiah 9:2). Verse 12 says that all who receive him and believe in his name, he gives the right to become children of God. When we receive him and believe him, we receive that light because we are born of God (verse 13).

Application: Yesterday, I found myself wrapped up in the stress of my agenda for the day. On top of that, I did not feel well because of an illness I have not completely recovered from. I proceeded to make mistakes I should not have made. By the afternoon, I found myself in a very negative thought pattern that I could not control.

When I focus on myself, my reputation, and the things of the world, it is easy to lose sight of the light and even forget who I am. I am born of God! This means that His light lives in me. When I start to lose sight of the light, I need to immediately stop what I am doing, stop listening to the dark, seek God and His grace, believing what I know to be true!

Prayer: Oh, Lord, forgive my self-absorption that distracts me from you and the light you are calling me to be. Help me to remember who I am and all you have done for me. Lord, you have given me every reason to believe you! Forgive me for being so easily deceived. Thank you so much for the grace you pour out on my life! From the fullness of your grace I have received one blessing after another. Thank you that your love is bigger than my biggest bungles!