(The following is the September 4 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Philippians 2 and pay close attention to verses 5-11.)
Christians hold to the promise that “at the name of Jesus every knee will bow – in heaven and on earth and under the earth – and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (vv. 10-11). What a day that will be.
Sadly, many refuse (for now) to bow to Jesus. The hearts of believers ache when we see others reject Christ, such as:
Those who wrongly think their good deeds will guarantee a place in Heaven;
Hard-hearted neighbors, friends, coworkers, and family members who shut off conversations about Christ;
Prideful intellectuals and atheists who accuse Christians of being naïve fools;
Political and other leaders who consider themselves ultimate authorities and rule over people in godless ways.
As people redeemed by the blood of Christ, we rejoice in the assurance that a day is coming when Christ’s lordship will be universally known and acknowledged. But we want those who do not know Christ to realize their lostness on this side of earthly death. We long to see everyone, including the worst enemies of the faith, repent and trust in Christ. Only then will they eagerly and joyfully bow and proclaim “Jesus is Lord” on that great day as his beloved child and not as a condemned enemy.
Do we grasp the urgency of faith for ourselves and others? Do we live each day accordingly?
Next Step:
Devote an extended time to praying for unbelievers. Write down their names. Include family members, coworkers, neighbors, friends, public figures, and others. Who in that list can you lovingly approach with the gospel? Pray that God opens doors of opportunity to witness.
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