A Devotion May Be Someone's Only Bible

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DEVOTION BY POSTED 4/7/2018 12:00:01 AM ON Isaiah 53:10-11 CSB POSTED TO THE Spirit & Body Devotion

Yet the Lord was pleased to crush him severely. When you make him a guilt offering, he will see his seed, he will prolong his days, and by his hand, the Lord’s pleasure will be accomplished. After his anguish, he will see light, and be satisfied.  Isaiah 53:10-11 CSB

Photo courtesy of pixabay.Alcoholism death rates are at an all-time high.

Knowing that drinking is accompanied by a risk of organ damage and death, many drinkers admit alcohol is their favorite device to help them deal with stress, grief, worries, relaxation, and pressure. They refuse to sacrifice it for a sober lifestyle.

We all have our favorite things in life: foods, vacation spots, TV shows, and people. The thought of giving up one of these can be unimaginable. Being asked to walk away from a treasure we hold dear to our hearts could make us say a few choice words unspoken for years. How dare anyone ask us to give up a favorite entrée or habit, a sentimental relationship, or a favorite pastime? If they cared about us they would not ask.

How could it please God to sacrifice what He loves so much: His only begotten Son? When I was fourteen, the Lord told me, “Anything you love, learn to let it go.” I now realize certain requirements have to be met to do this. It is impossible to give up anything . . . to sacrifice . . . without understanding the love of God.  

According to Christ’s example, we should be pleased to sacrifice our only. Like our Father, we should give up the now and focus on the later, which cannot be done from a selfish outlook, but is greatly rewarding. Once we understand Jesus equips us with more fulfillment than this world—and once we understand the significance of the cross—we can sacrifice anything.  

It pleased God to sacrifice His one and only. If His Son, why not your ____? People find many reasons for not sacrificing: fear, confusion, self-worth, competence, tradition, and trust. Understanding and believing what God has done communicates to us the strength we need to alter these beliefs. This helps us sacrifice our only coat, our only meal, our only five minutes, our only hearts.

In all your getting, get understanding.

(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)

(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)

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Jennifer Gray

Jennifer Gray is a Thought Catalog published author of encouraging and thought-provoking material which she transcribes in an attempt to challenge the reader to seek truth, then change. She is the wife of a correction’s officer and the mother of four peculiar yet curious children. She is an investigative researcher, a philanthropist, a member of her local church’s street ministry, a drawing artist, a motivational speaker, and a singer. She finds that being among different people, changing environments, challenging cultures, and away from comfort zones provides for the healthiest research.

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  1. Reply
    Darrell Waters
    From Atmore, Al On 4/19/2018 7:37:24 PM

    Your message challenged me in the area of sentimental relationships. It also spoke to me where God told you at 14 to let go of anything you love. Apparently I have a big problem with sentimental relationships. I can get very attached to some people.

  2. Reply
    Darrell Waters
    From Atmore, Al On 4/19/2018 7:37:23 PM

    Your message challenged me in the area of sentimental relationships. It also spoke to me where God told you at 14 to let go of anything you love. Apparently I have a big problem with sentimental relationships. I can get very attached to some people.