Daily Manna

Daily Devotions from the Bible!

Category: New Testament Page 7 of 20

Devotions centered around passages from the New Testament.

Using Our Freedom Wisely!

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On 28 May 2024, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:9

In 1 Corinthians 8:9, Paul cautions believers to be mindful of how their actions, even those that are permissible, might affect others in the community. He emphasizes the importance of considering the impact of their freedom on those who are weaker in faith.

Paul writes, “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” (1 Corinthians 8:9, NIV)

Paul’s concern is that mature believers, who understand that idols are meaningless and therefore feel free to eat food sacrificed to them, might inadvertently lead newer or weaker believers into sin. He stresses that our actions should not cause others to stumble in their faith journey.

Consider the story of Daniel and his friends in Babylon (Daniel 1). When offered the king’s rich food and wine, Daniel chose instead to eat only vegetables and drink water, adhering to dietary laws that honored God. Daniel’s decision was not merely about the food itself but about his commitment to living in a way that was distinct and holy, setting an example for others. His disciplined lifestyle and dedication to God set a standard that inspired and influenced his friends and others around him.

A relevant cross-reference is Romans 14:13, which states, “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” This verse underscores the principle of living in a way that supports and builds up others, avoiding actions that could lead them astray.

As believers, we are called to use our freedom in Christ responsibly. This means being aware of how our actions influence others, particularly those who are newer or less mature in their faith. By prioritizing love and sensitivity in our conduct, we can help build a stronger, more united community of faith.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the freedom we have in Christ. Help us to use this freedom wisely, always considering how our actions might affect others. Give us a heart of love and sensitivity toward our fellow believers, especially those who are weaker in faith. May our lives be a reflection of Your grace and a source of encouragement to all. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

One God, One Lord!

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On 27 May 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:4-6

In 1 Corinthians 8:4-6, Paul addresses the issue of eating food sacrificed to idols, emphasizing the uniqueness and supremacy of the one true God. He reminds the believers that idols are nothing and that there is only one God, the Father, and one Lord, Jesus Christ.

Paul writes, “So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that ‘An idol is nothing at all in the world’ and that ‘There is no God but one.’ For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as indeed there are many ‘gods’ and many ‘lords’), yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.” (1 Corinthians 8:4-6, NIV)

Paul’s message is clear: although the world may acknowledge many gods and lords, Christians recognize only one true God and one Lord, Jesus Christ. This foundational truth shapes our identity and guides our actions.

Consider the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel in 1 Kings 18. Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal and challenged them to a contest to prove who the true God was. The prophets of Baal called on their god from morning till noon, but there was no response. Then Elijah prayed to the Lord, and fire came down from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and even the water in the trench. The people fell prostrate and declared, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!” (1 Kings 18:39, NIV). This powerful demonstration reaffirmed that the Lord is the one true God, and all other gods are powerless and false.

Deuteronomy 6:4, states, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” This verse reinforces the fundamental truth of the monotheistic faith shared by Christians and Jews.

As believers, we must live in the awareness that there is only one true God. This truth should guide our decisions, actions, and worship, keeping our focus on Him alone and resisting the temptations and distractions of false idols in our lives.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing Yourself as the one true God. Help us to live in the light of this truth, rejecting all false idols and focusing our hearts on You alone. Strengthen our faith and guide our actions, so that we may honor You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Seeking Justice Within the Church!

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On 26 May 2024, Sunday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:1

In 1 Corinthians 6:1, Paul addresses the issue of believers taking their disputes before secular courts rather than resolving them within the church. He emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts in a manner that honors God and reflects the unity of the Christian community.

Paul writes, “If any of you has a dispute with another, do you dare to take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the Lord’s people?” (1 Corinthians 6:1, NIV)

Paul’s concern is that taking disputes before secular courts can undermine the witness of the church and demonstrate a lack of faith in the wisdom and guidance of the Christian community. He advocates for resolving conflicts among believers in a way that reflects their shared values and commitment to Christ.

Consider the story of Moses in Exodus 18. When Moses was leading the Israelites, he found himself overwhelmed by the number of disputes he had to settle. His father-in-law, Jethro, observed this and advised Moses to appoint capable, God-fearing men to help judge the people’s disputes, reserving the most difficult cases for himself (Exodus 18:13-26). This system allowed for more efficient and godly resolution of conflicts, ensuring that justice was administered according to God’s standards.

A relevant cross-reference is Matthew 18:15-17, where Jesus provides a process for resolving conflicts among believers. He instructs that if a brother or sister sins, they should be confronted privately first. If they do not listen, the matter should be taken to one or two others, and if still unresolved, to the church. This process emphasizes reconciliation and the involvement of the Christian community in maintaining harmony and justice.

As modern-day believers, we are called to handle disputes with a spirit of humility, seeking reconciliation and justice within the framework of our faith. This approach not only preserves the unity and integrity of the church but also serves as a powerful witness to the world of the transformative power of Christ’s love and wisdom.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wisdom and guidance You provide through Your Word and Your people. Help us to resolve our disputes with a spirit of humility and reconciliation, seeking justice within the framework of our faith. Strengthen our commitment to unity and love, so that we may honor You in all our interactions. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Living Set Apart!

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On 25 May 2024, Saturday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 5:9-11

In 1 Corinthians 5:9-11, Paul addresses the issue of associating with immoral people, particularly within the church. He distinguishes between interacting with non-believers and those within the church who persist in sinful behaviors.

Paul writes, “I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people—not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.” (1 Corinthians 5:9-11, NIV)

Paul’s concern is for the purity and witness of the church. He clarifies that while believers inevitably interact with non-believers in their daily lives, they must take a firm stance against persistent, unrepentant sin within the church. This is to prevent the corruption of the community and to uphold the church’s integrity.

Consider the story of Nehemiah. When Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls, he faced opposition and corruption, even among his own people. In Nehemiah 13, after returning from a trip to Persia, he discovered that the temple was being misused, and the people had again intermarried with foreigners, violating God’s commands. Nehemiah took decisive action to purify the community, enforcing God’s laws and restoring order. His actions, though harsh, were necessary to preserve the sanctity of the people and their worship.

As believers, we must strive to live lives set apart for God, holding each other accountable with love and truth. This means addressing sin within the church, not out of judgment, but out of a desire for repentance, restoration, and a witness that honors God.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your guidance in living lives that honor You. Help us to lovingly and courageously address sin within our community, seeking repentance and restoration. Give us wisdom and grace to live set apart, reflecting Your holiness in all we do. Strengthen our witness so that we may draw others to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Following Faithful Examples!

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On 23 May 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:14-17

In 1 Corinthians 4:14-17, Paul speaks to the Corinthian church with the heart of a spiritual father, urging them to follow his example as he follows Christ. He emphasizes his deep care and concern for their spiritual growth and well-being.

Paul writes, “I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children. Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Therefore I urge you to imitate me. For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.” (1 Corinthians 4:14-17, NIV)

Paul’s approach is filled with love and concern. He sees himself as a father figure to the Corinthians, having brought them to faith in Christ. His admonition to imitate him is not rooted in arrogance but in his sincere desire for them to live godly lives, as he strives to do. By sending Timothy, a trusted and faithful disciple, Paul ensures that the Corinthians have a tangible example to follow.

Consider the story of Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings 2. When Elijah was taken up to heaven, Elisha was determined to follow him closely and inherit his prophetic mantle. Elisha’s faithful following of Elijah’s example equipped him to continue Elijah’s work, performing miracles and leading Israel with the same dedication. This story illustrates the importance of having and following godly examples to continue the work of God faithfully.

A cross-reference is Philippians 3:17, where Paul again emphasizes, “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.” This reinforces the idea of following godly examples to grow in faith and practice.

As believers, we are called to look for and follow examples of faithfulness in our lives. Whether it’s spiritual mentors, leaders, or faithful friends, imitating their walk with Christ can guide us in our own spiritual journey. Let us seek to be both good followers and examples to others, living lives that reflect the teachings and love of Christ.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the godly examples You place in our lives. Help us to follow those who walk faithfully with You, and let our lives be an example to others. Guide us to live in a way that reflects Your love and truth, and help us to grow continually in our faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Living for God’s Approval!

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On 22 May 2024, Wednesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:3-4

In 1 Corinthians 4:3-4, Paul addresses the issue of judgment and self-assessment. He emphasizes that ultimate judgment comes from the Lord, and not from human opinions or even one’s own evaluation.

Paul writes, “I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.” (1 Corinthians 4:3-4, NIV)

Paul’s confidence is rooted not in human approval but in God’s judgment. He acknowledges that even a clear conscience does not equate to innocence, underscoring the importance of God’s ultimate assessment.

Consider the story of David in 1 Samuel 16. When Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel, he looked at Jesse’s sons and thought Eliab, the eldest, was surely the Lord’s anointed. But God said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7, NIV). David, the youngest and seemingly least likely, was chosen because of his heart for God. This story illustrates that God’s judgment is based on His knowledge of our hearts, not on outward appearances or human opinions.

As believers, we are often subject to the judgments of others and even our own self-criticism. However, Paul reminds us that it is God’s judgment that truly matters. Our aim should be to live in a manner that pleases Him, knowing that His assessment is just and perfect.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help us to focus on Your judgment and approval rather than the opinions of others or our own self-assessments. Give us the courage to live for You with a clear conscience, trusting in Your perfect judgment. Help us to seek Your will in all we do, knowing that You see our hearts. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Embracing God’s Wisdom!

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On 21 May 2024, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:18-23

In 1 Corinthians 3:18-23, Paul urges believers to reject worldly wisdom and embrace the wisdom of God, emphasizing that true wisdom is found in humility and reliance on Christ.

Paul writes, “Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become ‘fools’ so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: ‘He catches the wise in their craftiness’; and again, ‘The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.’ So then, no more boasting about human leaders! All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God.” (1 Corinthians 3:18-23, NIV)

Paul’s message challenges the Corinthians—and us—to reassess our values and priorities. Worldly wisdom, often characterized by self-reliance and pride, is futile in God’s sight. Instead, true wisdom involves humility and a recognition of our dependence on God.

An inspiring example from the Bible is the story of Solomon. When Solomon became king, God offered to grant him whatever he desired. Solomon chose wisdom to govern God’s people effectively. In 1 Kings 3:7-12, Solomon’s humble request pleased God, who granted him unparalleled wisdom along with riches and honor. Solomon’s choice to prioritize divine wisdom over earthly gain highlights the value of seeking God’s perspective.

Paul also reminds the Corinthians that all things belong to them in Christ, emphasizing their unity and shared inheritance. By aligning themselves with Christ rather than human leaders, believers can experience the fullness of God’s blessings.

As modern-day believers, we are called to embrace God’s wisdom, rejecting the futile wisdom of the world. This means living with humility, seeking God’s guidance, and recognizing our unity in Christ.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for offering us true wisdom through Christ. Help us to reject worldly wisdom and embrace humility, seeking Your guidance in all things. Remind us of our unity in Christ and the richness of our inheritance in Him. May our lives reflect Your wisdom and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God’s Temple: A Sacred Dwelling!

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On 20 May 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, the Apostle Paul reminds believers of their identity as God’s temple, emphasizing the sanctity and unity of the church, and warning against actions that might harm it.

Paul writes, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for God’s temple is sacred, and you together are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:16-17, NIV)

These verses highlight a profound truth: believers collectively form the temple of God, where His Spirit resides. This metaphor underscores the holiness and unity of the church, calling each member to respect and preserve this divine dwelling.

Consider the story of the dedication of Solomon’s Temple in 1 Kings 8. Solomon built a magnificent temple for the Lord, following divine instructions with meticulous care. At the temple’s dedication, God’s glory filled the temple in a visible manifestation, indicating His presence among His people (1 Kings 8:10-11). Solomon’s temple was a sacred place, reflecting God’s holiness and the reverence due to His dwelling.

Paul’s message in 1 Corinthians extends this concept to the spiritual realm. As believers, we are now the temple of God, and His Spirit dwells within us. This truth calls us to live lives that honor God, promoting unity, love, and holiness within the church. Just as Solomon’s temple was treated with the utmost reverence, so too should we treat our lives and our community as sacred.

A cross-reference that complements this teaching is Ephesians 2:21-22, where Paul states, “In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.” This passage reinforces the idea of the collective body of believers forming a holy temple, growing together in unity and holiness.

As modern-day believers, we are called to maintain the sanctity of God’s temple by living in a way that reflects His holiness and by fostering unity within the church. Let us remember that our actions and attitudes impact the sacredness of God’s dwelling place.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for making us Your temple, where Your Spirit dwells. Help us to honor this sacred calling by living in holiness and unity. Guide us in preserving the sanctity of Your church, reflecting Your love and grace in all we do. May our lives and our community be a testament to Your presence among us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Building Wisely on the Foundation!

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On 18 May 2024, Saturday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:10

In 1 Corinthians 3:10, the Apostle Paul speaks about the importance of how we build our lives on the foundation of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the responsibility of each believer to build wisely and carefully, as their work will be tested by God.

Paul writes, “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.” (1 Corinthians 3:10, NIV)

Paul’s metaphor of building reflects the Christian life and ministry. The foundation he laid is Jesus Christ, and believers are called to build upon this foundation with care and wisdom. The quality of our work, representing our faith and actions, will ultimately be tested by God.

Consider the story of Nehemiah, who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah was deeply moved by the ruins of Jerusalem and sought God’s guidance to restore the city. Despite opposition and challenges, Nehemiah led the people in rebuilding the walls with diligence and dedication. Their efforts were rooted in prayer and dependence on God, resulting in the successful completion of the wall in just 52 days (Nehemiah 6:15-16).

Nehemiah’s story illustrates the importance of building with care, relying on God’s strength and guidance. Just as Nehemiah built physical walls to protect and restore Jerusalem, we are called to build our spiritual lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ.

A cross-reference that complements this teaching is Ephesians 2:19-22, where Paul describes believers as members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. This passage reinforces the idea that our lives must be built on the solid foundation of Christ, and together, we form a holy temple in the Lord.

As modern-day believers, we must consider the materials we use to build our lives—faith, love, integrity, and obedience to God’s Word. These are the enduring materials that will withstand the testing of God. Let us build wisely and with care, ensuring that our lives reflect the glory and grace of our foundation, Jesus Christ.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the foundation of Jesus Christ upon which we can build our lives. Help us to build wisely and with care, using materials that reflect Your love, truth, and righteousness. Guide us in our efforts, and may our lives be a testament to Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Growing in Spiritual Maturity!

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On 17 May 2024, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:1-4

In 1 Corinthians 3:1-4, the Apostle Paul addresses the believers in Corinth, expressing his disappointment at their lack of spiritual maturity. He calls them “mere infants in Christ” because of their jealousy and quarreling, indicating that they were not living by the Spirit but were acting in a worldly manner.

Paul writes, “Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly—mere infants in Christ. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans? For when one says, ‘I follow Paul,’ and another, ‘I follow Apollos,’ are you not mere human beings?” (1 Corinthians 3:1-4, NIV)

Paul’s words challenge us to examine our own spiritual maturity. He reminds us that being in Christ calls for growth and transformation, moving from spiritual infancy to maturity. This growth is often evident in how we relate to others, particularly in avoiding jealousy and quarreling, which are signs of worldly behavior.

Consider the example of the early church in Acts 4:32-35. The believers were “one in heart and mind,” sharing everything they had and testifying to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus with great power. There was no needy person among them because of their generous hearts and unity. This is a powerful illustration of spiritual maturity, demonstrating love, unity, and selflessness.

As modern-day Christians, we are called to strive for spiritual maturity. This means moving beyond the basics of our faith, cultivating deeper understanding, and reflecting Christ’s love in our interactions with others. Let us seek to grow daily, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts and minds.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word, which guides us in our spiritual journey. Help us to grow in maturity, moving beyond spiritual infancy. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we may live in unity, love, and selflessness. Transform our hearts and minds to reflect Christ in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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