August 3: “Giving My All to Jesus”

6 Minute Read

Be Still

To the best of your ability, get rid of all distractions. Take a couple of minutes to breathe deeply, to quiet yourself in the Lord’s presence. Then, prayerfully ask the Lord to speak to you in this time and let Him know that you will be listening and will make whatever adjustments He will reveal to you.

Today’s Bible Reading:

2 Chronicles 33:14–34:33
Romans 16:10-27
Psalm 26:1-12
Proverbs 20:19

Listen to the Lord

Slowly and reflectively read the following verses and listen to what God will say to you through them. Then, consider writing down any insights He reveals to you.

Romans 16:19 (NLT): “But everyone knows that you are obedient to the Lord. This makes me very happy. I want you to be wise in doing right and to stay innocent of any wrong.”

Reflections from Scripture:

The biblical book of Romans was written to the first century Christians who lived in Rome. And some would say that this book, among the other New Testament books, is like the snow-capped peak of a mountain range. It rewards the ones who do the work of climbing its peaks with exhilarating views. There is so much to be enjoyed in this incredible letter to those early Christians.

The verse I have chosen today reveals that as the Apostle Paul was ending his epistle to the Roman Christians, he bragged on them. He told them that not only had they been obedient to the things of God, it had also become public knowledge. People were taking note of the fact that they were devout Jesus-followers.

Certain things happen when a Christian is serious about following Jesus:

• It emboldens weak Christians.
• It provides an example for new Christians.
• It creates unity and camaraderie with mature Christians.
• It demonstrates to the lost world that Jesus makes a visible difference in those who follow Him (and so it gives credibility to those who share the Gospel).
• Etc., etc., etc.

Friend, can others see Jesus in you? 

I didn’t ask if they know you are saved. I asked if you are so serious about following Him, that you are taking obedience to His Word seriously. 

Only then will believers around you take note and be encouraged. Only then will unbelievers around you take note and realize that there just might be something to Jesus and the Gospel.

Live in such a way that others might one day be able to say about you:

Romans 16:19 (NLT): “But everyone knows that you are obedient to the Lord. This makes me very happy. I want you to be wise in doing right and to stay innocent of any wrong.”

Spend Time in Prayer

Lord Jesus, there are far too many people who are “Christian” in name only. While I humbly acknowledge my own shortcomings and my desperate need of You, I desire to take seriously my life with You. With all my heart, I cry out to You with the words attributed to D.L. Moody: “The world has yet to see what God can do with a man fully consecrated to him. By God’s help, I aim to be that man.” Amen.

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Matt Ellis is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Polk City, Florida (fbcpolkcity.com). His latest book is God’s Grace in the Real World. Connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.