Today’s Manna!
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:50
1 Corinthians 15:50 (NIV) says, “I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.”
Paul’s message in this verse emphasizes a profound spiritual truth: our mortal, perishable bodies are not fit for the eternal, imperishable kingdom of God. This underscores the necessity of a transformation that transcends our physical existence. To inherit the kingdom of God, we must undergo a change that begins with salvation and continues through our commitment to Christ.
Paul is highlighting the need for a new birth, a spiritual rebirth that Jesus spoke about in John 3:3 (NIV): “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” This new birth is not about a physical transformation but a spiritual one—moving from death to life through faith in Jesus Christ.
An inspiring example from the Bible is the conversion of Saul, who became the Apostle Paul. Saul was a fervent persecutor of Christians, dedicated to eradicating the early church. However, on the road to Damascus, he encountered the risen Christ in a blinding vision (Acts 9:3-6). This encounter led to Saul’s dramatic transformation. He was baptized, filled with the Holy Spirit, and began preaching the very faith he once tried to destroy.
Paul’s life is a testament to the transformative power of Christ. His commitment to the gospel and his tireless efforts in spreading the message of salvation highlight the profound change that comes from truly encountering Jesus. Paul went from being a persecutor of the church to one of its most devoted apostles, showing that no one is beyond the reach of God’s saving grace.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of transformation through Jesus Christ. We acknowledge that our perishable bodies cannot inherit Your eternal kingdom without Your intervention. Help us to experience the new birth that Jesus spoke of and to commit our lives fully to Him. May we, like Paul, be transformed by Your grace and become fervent ambassadors of Your love and truth. Guide us as we walk in faith, continually seeking to grow closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.