2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Ezekiel 18:1-19:14 ESV, Hebrews 9:1-10 ESV, Psalm 106:32-48 ESV, Proverbs 27:10 ESV
Daily Verse: “This is an illustration for the present time, indicating that the gifts and sacrifices being offered were not able to clear the conscience of the worshiper.” (Hebrews 9:9 ESV)
ENISTEMI (1764): “To set in,” or, in the middle voice and perfect tense of the active voice, “to stand in, be present,” is used of the present in contrast with the past, Heb 9:9.”[1]
Be present.
Once again, the author points out that we can’t save ourselves from our past and future sins; only Jesus can help us. But people spend so much time living in the past or future that they miss now. And now matters.
Deciding to lay down your past and embrace a future grounded in now, we must learn to become present. Understanding that eternity started long ago, continuing onward in the present, and moving forward.
“For the present is the point at which time touches eternity.” C.S. Lewis
Choose now.
Today begins a new day, full of God’s grace and mercy; choose to embrace it. Lay your burdens at the foot of the cross; let them go to the King. Bring joy into your heart as you allow God to take control. Don’t let eternity pass you by as you live in a moment already gone or yet to come. Live in this moment, knowing it will pass, good or bad.
Our emotions help guide us in our relationship with God. Throughout the scriptures, we witness the many emotions of the Lord. Instead of condemning yourself for having feelings, explore them, understand them, and learn from them.
Following Jesus requires a relationship of trust. On earth, people prove untrustworthy, but God always comes through. Christ walks with us in our valleys and the mountains, never leaving or forsaking us. Trust Him. Turn to Jesus today, pour out your heart to Him, and let Christ begin to heal the hurt.
Today will never come again. Whatever circumstance lies before you, God has a plan. One, He will walk you through; Jesus doesn’t let you go alone. Christ went first; follow Him. In the Lord, you will find everlasting peace, now and forever.
[1] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p. 89) Thomas Nelson
