New Life in Christ

Open Your Bible

Colossians 3:1-17, John 11:25, Romans 6:1-14

Jesus came to make us new. While some see Christianity as a form of behavior modification, it’s actually an invitation to ongoing heart transformation. Our old selves are buried and gone, and just as Jesus was resurrected after His death, we have been made new to live empowered by the Holy Spirit and bring glory to God.

The new life Jesus gives invites us into an entirely new way of living. Often, we are tempted to believe that we can live in this newness while still embracing old or comfortable ways of living. But as the apostle Paul pointed out in Romans 6:11, we must count ourselves as “dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Reading these verses, I find myself asking, “How do we pursue living lives marked by Christ’s resurrection? How do we live devoted to God without oversimplifying our ongoing journey of discipleship into either a formulaic program or self-help methodology that’s entirely built on our own strength and willpower?”

When tempted to try our best to be “good Christians,” the apostle Paul reminds us that the key to our transformation is not our human goodness. As we pattern our lives after His, the Holy Spirit leads us to become more and more like Jesus in our daily living. He calls us to adopt Jesus’s beliefs, actions, and attitudes. Like in Colossians 3:2, we are compelled to set our thoughts on what is above, not on earthly things. And Jesus taught us in Matthew 6 to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. What we dwell on, what we pay attention to, what we focus on—these things shape our beliefs. This is how we set our thoughts on what is above.

When we set our thoughts on Him, our actions begin to change too. We want to be like Jesus—to live faithful lives marked by holiness and love. We seek to serve, to love, to give, not out of obligation but out of a hunger to see God’s kingdom come and will be done.

Today, I invite you to see how the Holy Spirit might empower you to live fully devoted to Jesus. Submit your thinking, your actions, your attitudes, and desires to God. Open your heart to His leading and His influence. Let Him continue to transform you from the inside out!

(114) Comments
[x]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

114 thoughts on "New Life in Christ"

  1. Michaela Hawkins says:

    Praying for all my sisters in the path of Milton! We are hunkering down with my parents from Tampa staying at our place in central Florida. I’m using today to just be in the word.

    I love to shorten Col 3:12-15 to these bullet points of reminders:
    -compassion
    -kindness
    -gentleness
    -patience
    -forgiveness
    -love
    -thankfulness

  2. Heide Bouter says:

    I pulled out my Amplified Bible and love how it words verse 15:
    “Let the peace of Christ, the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him, be the controlling factor in your hearts, deciding and settling questions that arise.”

    1. Cee Gee says:

      ❤ thanks for sharing!

  3. Cheryl Blow says:

    Praying for all in the path of Milton and also those recovering from Helene!

    CEEGEE praying for you with this infection!

    I read in HRT their reading! It reminded me of what my mom used to tell me when I would get frustrated at work. Do everything as into the Lord and whether or not anyone notices what you do, God sees! Please God not people. Submit to those in authority over you and show respect even if you disagree. As long as they don’t ask you to do anything immoral, illegal or against God. I did this and it worked well for me. I knew she was quoting scripture but it meant a lot to me.

    I’m praying for those of you who are in difficult jobs or relationships!

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Bless you, Cheryl, for the prayers! <3

  4. Rhonda J. says:

    Good Morning!
    It not only feels like groundhog day today on SRT as I read the same scripture and devotional before I realized, lol. But it feels the same as I was looking at the weather pages of the big hurricane coming right towards us with Ian, and now this dude Milton. We have not evacuated yet even though mandatory. My husband has to work at the airport, and also traffic is at a snails pace trying to exit by 75. But I am going to higher ground to stay at a friends tomorrow. We have lots of people still here and neighbors. I am praying for everyone’s safety and our homes.

    1. Kris says:

      Many prayers going up for you and your friends/family/neighbors. My Small Group is praying constantly for all in the path of this storm!!

    2. Indiana Elaine says:

      My prayers are with you, Rhonda. We have many relatives in the Sarasota area plus we winter there as well. I hear gas stations are running out of gas as people are trying to exit. Prayers for safety and provision.

    3. GramsieSue says:

      Prayers for your safety

    4. Rachel says:

      Milton is the worst kind of Deja vu :( Praying for you and all in the path of this bully!

    5. Tina says:

      Rhonda, praying for you and yours’ safety.. love you dear sister..❤️

    6. Mercy says:

      Rhonda, I am praying. I was nervous when seeing mandatory orders on the news last night and I thought of you, Stacy, the jail ladies and the homeless folks.

    7. Julia C says:

      Praying for you and your husband ❤️

    8. Cee Gee says:

      Praying here, Rhonda, for you and all in the path. Praying also that it falls apart so that it won’t bring as much damage when it lands. It looks like it is shearing pretty badly right now, but they keep saying it will be bad. Big and mighty prayers! Glad you are going to higher ground! <3

    9. Dee Dee says:

      Praying for you and your hubby, Rhonda and for all those in the area of Milton and those recovering from Helene. Lord hear our prayers!❤️stay safe and strong in Jesus name

  5. GiGi Mills says:

    Thank you Donna!

  6. ERB says:

    Here are my comments from today.. May each of you be blessed and filled today and always!! ❤️️


    Deuteronomy 6:5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
    *this right here is my deepest and truest desire!! Let it be so Lord!! Amen.
    -8th

    Ephesians 6:5-7
    *LOVE how the scripture confirms itself!! Also, love how it says “NOT by the way of eye service, as people-pleasers but as bondservants of Christ” ..LOVE that it is by sincere action and the state of the heart and not by words alone!! SO Good!!!
    **also, the word bondservant REALLY stood out to me.. my immediate thought was “bound to Christ” but I wanted to look up the definition and get more clarity.. here is what I found: “A bondservant is a slave who is entirely at the disposal of his master. In the Bible, bondservant is a metaphor for someone who is devoted to Jesus and renounces other masters.” Got questions, where I found the definition, also mentioned Mathew 11:30 “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” This reference and definition brought in a whole new understanding for me!! May we bind and devote ourselves ENTIRELY to Christ and be His WILLING and obedient slaves, slaves that LOVE their Master SO much that they never want to leave His side, Presence or household!! His yoke is easy and burden light!!! May we remember this and live it out!!! Amen.
    -8th

    Colossians 4:1
    *our Master is in HEAVEN!!! This signifies that we should be LIVING from ABOVE!!! …Not being caught up in the affairs of this world. After all, we answer to God alone. Let us serve Him wholeheartedly and love Him unreservedly, just as He does for us!! Amen.
    -8th

    Colossians 3:23-24
    *I LOVE this reminder!! We are to Love, look to God and serve as Christ Himself exemplified!!! Let us put God FIRST always!!! Remembering that in whatever we do, and in whoever we meet we are serving and loving God Himself right in that moment. Burn this into our hearts God and remind us of it in every moment!! Let us submit to and honor You in ALL things. Amen.
    -8th

    1. Tina says:

      ERB, I love the surprise of seeing you here with words of encouragement. God bless you my dear, God bless you indeed!❤️

    2. Julia C says:

      Thank you ERB ❤️ So good to see you!

    3. Cee Gee says:

      So glad to see you, ERB! I was just thinking of you yesterday and missing you! <3

  7. Sarah Ritchie says:

    Praying for everyone in the path of Milton. I am a day behind on my reading so this worked out perfectly for me!

  8. ERB says:

    A good and BLESSED morning to each of you wonderful ladies and sisters in Christ!!

    Like many of you have already done, I went to HRT for the scriptures.. here they are:
    Colossians 3:18-25
    Colossians 4:1
    Deuteronomy 6:4-5
    Mathew 22:36-40
    Ephesians 5:22-23
    Ephesians 6:1-9

  9. Kimberly Z says:

    Happy Tuesday ladies even though this is Mondays post! Praying for you all

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Thank you for clarifying it is Tuesday! lol

  10. Kimberly Reed says:

    Thank you Kelly! I was having a Groundhog Day moment hahaha!

    1. Cheryl Blow says:

      Yes, I felt the same way!

  11. Sally B. says:

    In the meantime, the HRT devotion is really good. A great reminder that everything we do, every interaction we have is done in the presence of and for the glory of God. Certainly not in our own strength, but empowered by the One who is love and who loved us first!
    Blessings to you all today!

  12. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

    Good morning! SRT is still behind in putting up Day 23. I like searching went to HRT. Will be back when ours is up to comment…blessings sisters!

    1. Tina says:

      Sharon , sending much love and hugs to you both… continued prayers.., ❤️

  13. Cara Kidd says:

    Can you guys see day 23 on the app?

    1. Robin Bailey says:

      I can’t see it.

  14. Searching says:

    Sisters, I’ve emailed SRT that there’s no Day 23 up yet on website or app. HRT does have Day 23 up, so I’ll be back with any comments once SRT is fixed.

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Thank you!
      Scripture Reading: Colossians 3:18-25, Colossians 4:1, Deuteronomy 6:4-5, Matthew 22:36-40, Ephesians 5:22–23, Ephesians 6:1-9

      1. Kelly says:

        Thank you Kelly (NEO) for posting the readings!

  15. Donna Mitchell says:

    A heart transformation- what a beautiful and powerful God we serve.

  16. Natasha R says:

    I have put on the new self, granted by God’s grace, for the purpose of bringing His Kingdom to earth. What a great reminder as I struggle with life’s frustrations and challenges. What I have learned from your comments is that not only does God renew our hearts and minds, he renews our vision too. We are now able to see the world from God’s perspective. I pray that I go through my day today (it’s Tuesday morning in Hong Kong) with my Kingdom glasses on, walking in step with the Holy Spirit, and letting God’s will be done in my life.

  17. Mari V says:

    “ Seek first the kingdom of God and all his righteousness then all things will be added onto you” As a 17-year-old, this was one of the first Bible verses I learned when I became a Christian. I don’t remember her name, but it was an adult leader who shared this verse with me at a youth retreat. That day on May 5th 1984, Jesus became the LORD of my life!!

  18. Kris says:

    I grew up going to church, so there wasn’t much “new” when I gave my heart to Jesus at a young age. And basically I flew by without much change at all until about 4 years ago when I read John 10:10 and thought, “Why am I not living an abundantly joyful life?”. So I began a journey with God to find that joyful life, and He has changed me tremendously! I didn’t know that I wasn’t serious about Christ until then. But I began a wonderful journey of trusting God, allowing Him to bring healing to places I didn’t even know I needed healing, to change my heart where I needed it, to show me places where I had a skewed perception of things. It’s been a beautiful time with God, a deepening of my relationship with Him like I never had before. I can say now that I have a “new” life in Christ.

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, ditto! Amen, thank goodness the scales were lifted with a searching heart!

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        I do thank God for my wonderful, God-fearing loving Christ parents that planted the word in my heart, so when I went away, this prodigal girl returned!!

        1. Laura says:

          I love that! I hope one day to hear my own prodigals say that!

    2. Margo Trinter says:

      Love this! What a wonderful journey.

    3. Kimberly Reed says:

      Kris I’ve had this question as well. I’m heading to John 10:10 and will take this to Jesus

      1. Kris says:

        Kimberly, it can be the best journey of your life. But you have to be open to hearing what God wants to say to you – let Him heal you, restore you, fill you, correct you, give and take away… I had many changes I had to make in order to have that abundantly joyful life – but it’s all been worth it, and I realized that only because God loves me so, He is going to do what’s necessary to give you what you ultimately want

    4. Lanie H says:

      Same Kris!! It always really bothered me that I didn’t see a huge transformation, but looking back I can see him everywhere, and I’m so thankful for my parents for planting that seed early! I think we can see the fullness of what Christ in us means until God reveals himself to us. So I try to give myself as much grace as possible through those early christian years. And if anyone else is in that place pray! I think a big part of my transformation later was praying for God to reveal himself more when I read the Bible. Ask and you will receive

  19. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

    ‘Set your heart on things above…set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3″1-2
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Why is it so hard for us Christians to get it? This world is not our home, we are just passing through on our way to our true home in Heaven.
    If this world is not our home, we shouldn’t be constantly thinking of worldly things – “what am I going to eat”, “what am I going to drink”, “what am I going to wear?” (Matthew 6:31-32) but instead thinking of heavenly things – “how can I please my Father”, “how can I walk in obedience to Him”, “how can I be used to further the kingdom?”
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    These are the questions I need to be asking myself daily. It is only when I fix my eyes on Jesus that I can begin to live a life marked by holiness and love, desiring to please Him in all that I do.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Praise God – I am hidden with Christ in God! I am chosen, holy and dearly loved and Christ is in me!!
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Father God, help me to daily set my mind on things above. Let me not be so wrapped up in this world that I forget that my true home is in heaven. Help me to obey You, help me to share the light of the gospel with others, help me to keep my eyes fixed on You. Help me to be more like Jesus. I not only pray this for me, but for all of my dear sisters here on SRT. Be glorified in each of us today, in Jesus name.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Lord willing, and the machine doesn’t break down again – Jeff has only 5 more radiation treatments!!
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    @Grammie Sue – Praise the Lord Steve is getting some feeling back in his feet. Continued prayers as he battles brain cancer. I am so sorry to hear of your troubles with your business and taxes. Praying for God’s wisdom, mercy & grace and that He will calm all your anxieties.

    @Michelle P. – praise God for your car!!

    @Jesse – I am so sorry to hear of your ending marriage. My heart breaks for you and your family. Prayers for wisdom and right words as you tell your children this hard news to hear. May they know they are loved and be able to truly know the love and peace of God – no matter what.

    @Eileen Dowd – prayers for you in your new position as Children’s Ministry Director.

    @Cee Gee – praying God heals that nasty infection and that it does not interfere with your other health issues.

    @Rhonda J. – praying for you and all the Florida residents in the path of this newly formed hurricane.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Have a blessed Monday dear sisters – you are loved and prayed for! ❤️

    1. GramsieSue says:

      Oh Sharon! Prayers that the last 5 treatments go smoothly! And prayers that the treatments heal Jeff!
      Thanks for keeping us in your prayers…all of us shes!

      Your comments were spot on! Thanks for sharing. I’ve written them in my journal! Praying to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus today and every day!

      Hugs to you ❤️

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        Continued prayers for Steve and Jeff! And the other care-givers here!

    2. Mercy says:

      Amen Sharon. Convicting questions, it has to be a constant heart check (motive check) for us. Joining you in prayers for Jeff’s treatment, and others.

    3. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, I agree whole heartedly…yet, with a looming hurricane, now that I have been through Ion, I am getting a little PSTD in preparing…AND seeing the floods destroy Ashland NC, Lord, take this fear….I am casting my cares on you Lord. I pray over my house and family and my dear friends, that whatever shall come, your church stands ready to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
      If you all have not seen the beautiful heart-breaking interview of the lady that was on the roof of her house with parents and son, and they got swept away with her being the only survivor. You need to look it up, her son cried out for Jesus…his last words. She tells that and in strong ONLY in our Lord. Let’s all pray for her in the coming days and months that we hold her up strong to the Lord.

      1. Mercy says:

        oh my word! I looked her up and i cried, her name is Meghan Drye, will be praying for her. Last night I was lying down and could not sleep, the weather is turning cold in fall, and i was thinking how would the families without homes manage as winter is approaching. My heart was stirred up because of the pain that we witness. Our God is the Waymaker, Miracle Worker, our Living Hope. Thank you Rhonda.

    4. Cathy McVey says:

      Sharon, praying for that machine!! Five more treatments and Jeff gets to ring the bell!! I pray all goes well and you get to continue with your vacation plans. Thank you for your questions this morning. I try to keep my eyes focused on my home in Heaven but some days it’s harder that others. Praying for all of us today!

  20. Traci Gendron says:

    As Nicole said, “some see Christianity as a form of behavior modification, it’s actually an invitation to ongoing heart transformation.” Hhmm behavior modification. Do I practice that? I suppose at times. I don’t want to be that kind of christian. I want a heart transformation. God please change me. Eyes up always!

  21. Cheryl Blow says:

    “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
    ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

    We have new life in Christ! It’s important to do all that everyone has said but for me I’m finding that in my surrender of my desires, wants, and everything to Jesus comes a freedom to walk closer to Him. It’s a daily thing and sometimes, I do it well. Sometimes not so much! Then I repent! This also makes me think of WWJD, What would Jesus Do. If I would ask myself that in difficult situations, I will react and respond to others differently.

    Praying for all. Those devastated by Helene and those in the path of Milton. (I think that is the name.). If there is ever one named Cheryl, it will be a mess. Praying for all!

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      hahaha or God forbid a Rhonda J.!

  22. Rhonda J. says:

    I have lived a lot of my “Christian” life as being half in and half out! I liked the presentation of what it looked like to be one. Yet, my other half was in the world to have fun drinking and partying. (now I have no idea how that was FUN, lol) I loved Christ as a Saviour, my ticked to heaven and thanking him for that, and praying when I needed. Yet my life was a mess. A self-made, full on mess with 2 ex-s, a body that had been used for drinking and sex, lying and cheating. I was the devils delight! A pseudo-christian! His favorite! But then I woke up, well that still took time, but I did hit my knees and cry out!
    The Lord heard my cry, and slowly transformed me. He brought me restoration to do more for him!But it wasn’t really transformed UNTIL I got in my Bible and started getting to know my Savior in a relationship! That’s where transformation happens and wisdom, and know the love story of God the Father!!
    Now I am a Christ-follower, fully growing more and more in wisdom. By serving and being used by him in whatever capacity he sends me!! Putting on my warrior boots as for such a time as this!! Being brave for the battle. Being Free of ME, and looking to him with Holy Spirit help!!! Amen and Amen!!
    Gotta run—-hitting the store and bracing in South Fort Myers for hurricane Milton!! Milton, I am covered by the Lord’s protection and will not fear!! Amen!!
    Prayers as needed and for all!!
    :)

    1. Cee Gee says:

      You have my prayers! May God direct you to the supplies you need without too much running around! Love yoy sister! ❤❤

    2. Laura says:

      Beautiful testimony, Rhonda. Thank you for sharing.

    3. GramsieSue says:

      You are such a model of Jesus’ transforming work in your life! Thank you for always sharing!
      Prayers for safety from Milton!
      ❤️

    4. Mercy says:

      Powerful transformation! and transparency with such boldness. And wow, a pseudo Christian is the devil’s favorite all right. Praying against Milton hurricane to make its destructive way toward the state of Florida. May the God who calms storms redirect its path.

    5. Cathy McVey says:

      Thank you for the good works you are doing and for encouraging us every day! Praying for you as you ready yourself for the next hurricane. May God keep you and everyone in that area in the shelter of his hand. ❤️

    6. Mari V says:

      Love you sweet lady and praying. Sent you a dm.

    7. Kimberly Reed says:

      ♥️

  23. Cee Gee says:

    SEARCHING, thank you for sharing your beautiful notes this morning. Powerful! I, too, am praying for those in Florida who are in the path of the next storm. May they be spared severe damage!

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~
    Last night I was listening to a song Rhonda mentioned yesterday. Great song! After a few more songs this one came up.
    ~~~~~~~
    JESSE E- I hope you see this and my comment yesterday!
    *
    “Never Walk Alone” by Hope Darst

    If I knew then what I know now
    I wouldn’t have doubted You
    I wish I could tell my younger self
    Just to have faith
    There’s so many mountains You have moved
    Valleys You have led me through
    And it’s only by Your grace
    I’m standing here today

    I’m a witness to Your faithfulness
    In every storm, in every step
    Looking back never once did You let me go
    And no matter what the future holds
    You’ll work it for my good I know
    You are faithful
    And I never walk alone

    My life is full of miracles
    The stories that I could tell
    All that You’ve healed, all that You’ve done
    I can’t forget
    So even if my life doesn’t go
    The way I plan or how I hope
    Our history has shown
    You’ve never failed me yet

    I’m a witness to Your faithfulness
    In every storm, in every step
    Looking back never once did You let me go
    And no matter what the future holds
    You’ll work it for my good I know
    You are faithful
    And I never walk alone
    Oh, I never walk alone

    Nothing and no one can separate me
    (Oh-oh-oh-oh)
    You go behind me and before me
    (Oh-oh-oh-oh)
    Nothing and no one can separate me
    (Oh-oh-oh-oh)
    Every moment I know You are with me

    You’ve always been faithful
    And looking back, You never let me go
    And no matter what the future holds
    You’ll work it for my good I know
    You are faithful
    And I never walk alone
    I never walk alone (never walk, never walk alone)
    Never walk alone (never walk, never walk alone)
    Oh (never walk, never walk alone)
    I never walk alone.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~
    That’s how each of us can live by the Word. Who better to guide us through the day than the One Who created us and spoke the Word?!
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    One last note. Anytime the heart is mentioned I think of one of my favorite verses, Ezekiel 36:26

    26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.
    Check out the timely verse of the day-Biblegateway!
    Psalm 63:1 NLT
    A psalm of David, regarding a time when David was in the wilderness of Judah.
    O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    I could use your prayers sisters as I deal with a nasty infection. I am on meds that, honestly, cause concern because of other health issues. Please pray God’s protection over my body and that these meds work in this round so I don’t have to risk these side effects again. So thankful to have you sisters to share concerns with since my biological sisters are no longer here! Love and prayers to you all. ❤

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Icky! Praying for full health to come quickly, Cee Gee

    2. GramsieSue says:

      Praying for quick healing and no bad side effects.
      Thanks for you post…it hit home! ❤️

    3. Mercy says:

      Father, we pray for complete healing over our sister, and a speedy recovery by the power of Your Spirit inside of her. We bind sickness in the Name of Jesus, we claim health and strength for her body, joy for her spirit. We bless Your Name Father. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.

    4. Tina says:

      Praying Cee-Gee for supernatural healing.. He is the great physician, after all..
      .
      Ain’t that the truth, that ‘I/we never alone..’ never!
      Sending much love dear Cee-Gee ❤️

    5. Tina says:

      Praying Cee-Gee for supernatural healing.. He is the great physician, after all..
      .
      Ain’t that the truth, that ‘I/we never alone..’ never!❤️
      Sending much love dear Cee-Gee ❤️

  24. Eileen Dowd says:

    Hey She Reads Truth ladies, if you could please pray for me as I begin the mantle as Director of Children’s Ministries at my church. I have been so blessed by “opening my Bible” daily and reading your comments and praying for you all – the Lord called me to this position in this season and I believe Jesus wants to capture the hearts of all our children!♥️

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      That’s wonderful Eileen! What a joy and challenging position!! If he calls you to it, he will enable you!! :)

    2. Cee Gee says:

      Eileen how exciting for you! Agree with Rhonda! God bless you with patience and fortitude, wisdom and grace ad you enter this new season! ❤

    3. Gwineth52 says:

      Wonder-Filled, Eileen!
      God knows exactly where He wants you to be placed!
      Go in Grace.

    4. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying for you! Children’s Ministry is my heart! I teach 2 & 3 year olds! If we can raise them up in the Lord at an early age, they will always have that foundation! I’m 68 and I plan on working in Children’s Ministry until the Lord takes me to heaven!

    5. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Thank you for serving the children ❤️

    6. GramsieSue says:

      Wonderful!
      Be blessed and protected from satan’s attacks. ❤️

    7. Mercy says:

      Dear Eileen, joining other sisters to cover you in prayers as you start this wonderful mantle with many responsibilities over the young generation, going against the fierce warfare and tactics the devil has been aiming at kids these days. Praying for strength, wisdom, grace, patience to guide, to love, to see the areas that need to be addressed, and may the love of the Lord be poured out through you, to the kids, especially those who don’t know experience love inside their homes, may they know it in the church, in the classes, through interactions, fellowship, stories and testimonies. Praying for these young minds and young hearts that you will serve.

    8. Tina says:

      I think firstly, Eileen,congratulations good and faithful servant!
      Praying His hand be over you as you take up this mantle.. it will be a wonderful and amazing job committed to raising up the next generation of ‘soldiers’ for the kingdom!
      God Bless you and keep you, Eileen. ❤️

  25. Jainee Elliott says:

    ❤️

  26. Michelle P says:

    @Karen Elizabeth – how did the car search go??

    This devotional hits the nail on the head… so good to remember we can’t change our hearts on pure self-determination. God is the one who reshapes our desires by His Holy Spirit and sanctification…

    God bless you, Shes. ❤️

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Yes, love that too! Not in our own strength, but the Lords! Not in our “rules” and “trying,” for that is futile and tiring!

    2. Cee Gee says:

    3. Mercy says:

      Amen. Congrats on your new car! also so excited for the new coworker who is a new fresh fire added to the team (to balance out the stress you had with the other coworker). Love you sister.

    4. Tina says:

      ❤️

  27. Kimberly Reed says:

    It’s so true-our hearts and desires are shaped by that which we give our attention and devotion to. May God always continue to correct and guide me! I want to be so brightly lit from within that the world must ask why ♥️

    1. Tina says:

      Kimberley, your words..
      “I want to be so brightly lit from within, the world must ask why”
      Struck me..
      Thank you..❤️

  28. Donna Simmons says:

    Well said. Lord help me to have a heart like yours. Amen

  29. Aimee D-R says:

    Amen

  30. Searching says:

    My notes this morning – I am transformed, not modified! I can’t fully live in the newness while clinging to all, or pieces, of my life before knowing Christ. I can’t sit on the fence, or keep one foot in my old life. Put on love, the peace of God should rule my heart, and the word of Christ should live in me “richly in all wisdom.”
    Romans 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.

    SUSAN – praying for you and family, especially tomorrow.

    LYNNE FROM AL, LINDA IN NC, NANCY S – praying for strength, endurance and comfort in the long days of caregiving.

    GRAMSIESUE- thankful for Steve’s health. Praying for wisdom and guidance in business and financial decisions that need to be made.

    RHONDA J – thank you for the updates and praises on Saturday ❤️ And praying for protection for you in this latest storm!! We are not currently in its path but have many family members that are. Be safe, sister!

    MICHELLE P – a car! Such awesome news, praise the Lord!!

    LAUREN GW – continuing to pray for you and your family

    CEE GEE ❤️

    1. SusanB says:

      Searching, thank you so much. I’m pretty blown away that you remember, since I rarely comment. I am here each day, reading and praying with you all. I still grieve every day over the loss of my son, but I don’t grieve like those who have no hope. Because of our faith and trust in our Savior, we will see each other again one day. Thank you for remembering!

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        PRayers Susan! “don’t mourn as those with no hope..” So good and will carry you through the hard.

    2. Emily B. says:

      Your illustration of sitting on the fence made me think of one I read in a devotion years ago that has stayed with me. It was talking about abiding in Christ and how we need to put ourselves completely on the altar before Him. The trouble is, a lot of us try to keep ourselves half on the altar and half not, so we can keep doing what we want to do. If you think about it in a physical sense, it would be terribly uncomfortable to be lying on an altar with half of your body on and half of it off. This is why we need to be totally on or totally off, and totally on is what’s best for us in our relationship with Jesus. That’s always been pretty convicting to me, even though I still don’t do it perfectly.

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        I kinda understand how it feels to the one wanting all of you! My ex, when saying he didn’t love my and wanted a divorce, he ended up moving back in after a stint living elsewhere. We had a new house and a year and half year old son. I give him credit for trying!! BUT, I could tell he didn’t fully want to be there. He had one foot in trying, and the other not fully committed to me in love. SO, It was not good for me and I made the very hard decision to tell him to leave because it couldn’t work without his heart for me, only some of what we offered. God doesn’t want us halfway in, only for what we think we should do as the right thing, he needs our full “willing” heart that loves him!

    3. Michelle P says:

      Thank you, Searching! ❤️

    4. Eileen Dowd says:

      Well said Searching!!

    5. GramsieSue says:

      Yes! Perfectly stated!
      Thanks for your prayers! ❤️

    6. Mercy says:

      Joining you in prayers SEARCHING. I was thinking of LAUREN GW too this past weekend and she was heavy on my mind, and you called it out! Bless your beautiful heart sister.

    7. Tina says:

      I loved every word you wrote, searching! Every word of a ‘be real’ (stolen from kelly) sister..
      I am with you!
      Hugs, hugs, hugs dear friend ❤️

  31. Kelly (NEO) says:

    Col.3:3-4 in the Message:
    “Your old life is dead. Your new life, which is your real life—even though invisible to spectators—is with Christ in God. He is your life. When Christ (your real life, remember) shows up again on this earth, you’ll show up, too—the real you, the glorious you. Meanwhile, be content with obscurity, like Christ.”
    .
    Be REAL today, Shes. :-)
    .
    JESSIE E – so sorry for the turmoil your family is going through. Praying the Lord brings you His comfort and wisdom.
    .
    GRAMSIESUE – praying for the Lord’s wisdom and provision to be pour out for you and Steve.
    .
    TAYLOR – praying things at work are better for you.

    1. Searching says:

      Be real! Thank you, KELLY ❤️

    2. Mercy says:

      YES! be real! :) Love that KELLY.

    3. Tina says:

      I love that! BE REAL..
      Indeed, Christ centred real.. Amen.
      Much love dear Kelly..❤️

  32. Julia C says:

    From HRT: “We can learn about this love—this second life we’ve been given in Christ—through the different tools of our faith traditions. But it cannot be systematized or quantified to the point that we replicate it; we can’t mass produce the Christian life from a formula. We learn the depth of this love and this life through daily living out our walk as disciples of Jesus, raised to walk in new life in Him.”

    Dear Father,
    The results of our daily walks are not always visible to me. I have to admit I sometimes would rather be running to the finish line and enjoy the results sooner rather than later.

    But as Nicole says, becoming like Your Son is not “behavior modification” but an “ongoing heart transformation”. No quick fixes, but everlasting “results”. Even Jesus spent 33 years with us on this earth so that we might come to know Him and follow Him.

    So I ask You, give me patience and endurance for this daily walk with You, especially when I am frustrated by my slow progress. Help me to look at You at all times in the confidence that You are with me and working in me – whether I am walking, running, or stumbling.
    AMEN.

    1. Searching says:

      Yes and amen, JULIA C!

    2. Dee Dee says:

      Love and agree with your prayer, Julia! Thanks for sharing!❤️

    3. Carol J Mylin says:

      Amen to your precious prayer, Julia…even at 78… that’s still my experience! Thanks for sharing! ♥️

    4. Gwineth52 says:

      Hey Julia C …
      In agreement wholeheartedly with your “benediction”…to which I add “fumbling the ball”…
      “Help me to look at You at all times in the confidence that You are with me and working in me – whether I am walking, running, or stumbling.”
      Thank you Jesus!

    5. GramsieSue says:

      Yes, this is what I need to pray! Thank you for sharing! ❤️

    6. Cathy McVey says:

      Thank you for this prayer. I wrote it in my journal to help me when I feel like I am stumbling. God bless you!

    7. Tina says:

      What truth and Amen, Julia C.
      I will be coming back to this prayer I’m sure as I walk through these coming days..
      Blessings, wrapped in hugs, my dear Julia..❤️

  33. Sally B. says:

    This from the devotion was such an encouragement “When we set our thoughts on Him, our actions begin to change too. We want to be like Jesus—to live faithful lives marked by holiness and love. We seek to serve, to love, to give, not out of obligation but out of a hunger to see God’s kingdom come and will be done.” Often times knowing the actions and attitudes I need to display Christ to others are lagging behind the head-knowledge! Father, give me courage and determination to let others see Jesus in me today!
    Blessings to you all today!

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Amen, Sally! ❤ Reminded me of the old hymn, Let Others See Jesus in You. Here’s the chorus:
      Let others see Jesus in you,
      Let others see Jesus in you;
      Keep telling the story, be faithful and true,
      Let others see Jesus in you.

      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      Let’s change ‘you’ to ‘me’ and sing that together today! ❤

      1. Tina says:

        Prayerful to let others see Jesus in ‘me’ this new day the Lord has made..
        Thank you Cee-Gee..❤️

    2. Tina says:

      Sally, praying your prayer with you.. Amen.❤️