Daily Manna

Daily Devotions from the Bible!

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Redeeming Time in a Chaotic World!

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On 19 January 2024, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-17

Imagine navigating a bustling marketplace, the din of voices and flashing lights vying for your attention. While others get swept up in the frenzy, you feel a calm determination – a focus on a specific purchase, a mission amidst the chaos. This is the essence of Paul’s call in Ephesians 5:15-17: “Be very careful, then, how you walk—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”

He urges us to walk “wisely,” not as puppets pulled by the strings of distraction, but as purposeful travelers navigating a world often consumed by “evil” forces. The “days,” he warns, are not playgrounds, but opportunities to be seized, treasures to be redeemed.

But how do we do this? Paul offers three practical steps:

1. Be Intentional: He calls us to “make the most of every opportunity.” This isn’t about squeezing every second into a packed schedule, but about approaching each moment with awareness, recognizing its potential to carry us closer to our true purpose. It’s like navigating the marketplace with a specific item in mind, not getting sidetracked by every shiny trinket.

2. Embrace Time’s Value: “The days are evil,” Paul states, not to instill fear, but to ignite urgency. We are reminded that time is precious, a gift not to be squandered on trivialities. Just as a wise merchant values each coin, we must value each moment, realizing its potential to build a life of meaning and purpose.

3. Seek Understanding: Finally, he urges us to “understand what the Lord’s will is.” This is the compass that guides our intentional steps. By seeking God’s will through prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of our community, we discover the path that truly redeems our days, the actions that align with our divine purpose.

Remember:

  • Colossians 4:5: “Walk wisely towards outsiders, making the most of the time you have.”
  • Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
  • Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Go forth, dear friend, a wise traveler in the marketplace of life. Carry your purpose like a treasured coin, choose your moments with discerning eyes, and let your footsteps be a testament to the time you’ve redeemed in the service of God. Remember, true wisdom lies not in escaping the whirlwind, but in dancing with purpose amidst its swirling dance.

Prayer: Dear Lord, grant us the wisdom to walk purposefully, the discernment to value each moment, and the faith to seek your will above all else. Help us navigate the chaos of the world with eyes fixed on Your light, redeeming our days with actions that build Your kingdom and reflect Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Choosing Truth in a Glittering World!

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On 18 January 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Ephesians 5:6-7

“Do not be deceived by empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.”

In a world saturated with empty promises, seductive messages, and fleeting pleasures, Paul urges us to be discerning. The “empty words” he warns against could be the allure of wealth, the fleeting thrill of sin, or the whispers of doubt that erode our faith. They’re seductive, shimmering masks that promise happiness but conceal emptiness.

However, he doesn’t just warn us – he offers an alternative. “Therefore do not be partners with them,” he urges. This isn’t about isolating ourselves from the world; it’s about choosing who we dance with at the masquerade ball. It’s about aligning ourselves with those who reflect truth, who choose light over darkness, and who hold up mirrors that challenge us to grow.

Living this discernment might seem daunting. But, like Paul, we’re not alone. We have the Holy Spirit, our inner compass, guiding us towards truth. We have Scripture, a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). And we have the community of believers, a collective wisdom that helps us navigate the shadows and embrace the light.

Remember:

  • John 8:32: “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22: “But test them all; hold on to what is good. Reject anything that resembles evil.”
  • Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.”

Go forth, dear friend, armed with discernment and bathed in the light of truth. Remember, the most beautiful dances are not with masked partners, but with those who embrace their genuine selves and reflect the radiant face of God. So choose wisely, move with grace, and let your life be a vibrant testament to the truth that sets us free.

Prayer: Lord, open our eyes to discern truth amidst the noise of the world. Grant us the courage to reject empty promises and the wisdom to seek your light. Fill us with your Spirit, guide us with your Word, and surround us with your faithful community. Help us navigate the masquerade, unmasking deception, and choosing to dance with those who reflect your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Reflecting God’s Character in Our Actions!

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On 17 January 2024, Wednesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Ephesians 5:1

Imagine standing before a still pond, the world’s vibrant hues mirrored perfectly upon its surface. But what if the pool is murky, clouded by negativity, judgment, or self-absorption? The reflection becomes distorted, a pale shadow of the beauty beneath.

This is the challenge presented in Ephesians 5:1: “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children.” We, as believers, are called to be living reflections of God’s love in the world. But how often do we find our own reflections, clouded by imperfections, failing to accurately portray the radiant character we’re called to embody?

Imitating God might seem overwhelming. Yet, it’s not about flawless perfection; it’s about intentionality. It’s about actively choosing compassion over criticism, forgiveness over resentment, and service over self-absorption. It’s aligning our hearts and actions with the principles Jesus demonstrated – the boundless love for the outcast, the radical forgiveness of the sinner, the selfless sacrifice for the lost. As John 13:35 echoes, “Just as I have loved you, you also ought to love one another.”

Living this reflected love might seem daunting, but we’re not alone. The Holy Spirit is our guide, polishing our murky depths and helping us shine more brightly. And we have a whole community of fellow believers, each reflecting their own facets of God’s love, united in this endeavor.

So today, let’s commit to becoming clearer reflections of the divine. Let’s actively seek ways to embody God’s love in our interactions, our decisions, and our very being. Let our words be channels of encouragement, our actions ripples of kindness, and our lives mirrors that illuminate the world with the radiant light of Christ.

Remember:

  • Colossians 3:12-14: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
  • Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, each of you looking to the interests of others.”
  • Matthew 5:16: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Go forth, dear friend, and let your life become a radiant poem of God’s love, a testament to the transformative power of His character mirrored in your choices and actions. Shine brightly, knowing that even the smallest reflection can illuminate the world around you.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for calling us to be reflections of your love. Forgive our flaws and imperfections that cast shadows upon your light. Polish our hearts, Holy Spirit, and shine through us. Grant us the wisdom to see your love in action, the courage to embody it in our choices, and the strength to share it with the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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An Enduring Heavenly Reward!!

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On 15 January 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Imagine a runner, chest heaving, muscles burning, nearing the finish line. The sun dips low, casting long shadows, and the roar of the crowd fades into a distant hum. It’s a scene of triumph, yes, but also of exhaustion, of the bittersweet awareness that the journey is about to end.

This is the image painted by Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 4:6-8: “For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have loved his appearing.”

Paul, nearing the end of his own race, doesn’t shy away from the reality of death. He acknowledges it, not with fear, but with acceptance. He uses the image of a “drink offering,” a sacrifice poured out in service to God, reminding us that even death can be an act of love, a final offering of faith and surrender.

But Paul doesn’t dwell on the sunset. He celebrates the sunrise. He declares, “I have fought the good fight,” his words echoing the trumpet call of 1 Corinthians 9:24-25: “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may win the prize. And everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control so that they may receive a crown that will not last, but we do this for a crown that will last forever.”

Paul’s victory isn’t measured by earthly accolades, but by the faithfulness of his run. He has kept the faith, not just in words, but in action, in love, in service. And now, as the sun dips below the horizon, he awaits the crown of righteousness, a reward not for merit, but for the grace that sustained him throughout his race.

This is a message of profound comfort for us all. We too will face our sunset, our own finish line. But like Paul, we can approach it with grace, not with fear. We can remember the good fight we’ve fought, the love we’ve shared, the faith we’ve nurtured. We can trust that the God who has been with us in the race will be with us at the finish, ready to crown our efforts with the eternal reward of His presence.

So today, let’s embrace the bittersweet beauty of our journey. Let’s run our race with passion, knowing that even when the sun sets, the victor’s crown awaits. For in the end, it’s not about the length of our run, but the depth of our love, the strength of our faith, and the grace that has carried us through.

Remember, dear friend, you are not alone in this race. Run with joy, run with faith, and know that the finish line is not an end, but a glorious beginning. May your sunset be a testament to the life you’ve lived, and may the victor’s crown be a reminder of the grace that has carried you home.

Prayer: Dear Lord, as we navigate the journey of life, grant us the strength to run our race with faith and love. Remind us that even when shadows lengthen, your light remains. Forgive our stumbles, celebrate our victories, and crown our efforts with the enduring reward of your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Christian Hope: With the Lord Forever!

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On 14 January 2024, Sunday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

The Daily Manna family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Pastor, Rev. Glenford Gordon, of City Road Baptist Church. He passed away on 13 January, 2024, having completed his earthly race and now awaiting the crown of glory. The Daily Manna community owes a great debt of gratitude to him for introducing “Daily Manna” to the World and praying for this ministry during the worship service on Sunday, 29 October 2023.

While we are shaken by his sudden departure, we are also profoundly grateful for the incredible legacy he leaves behind. Pastor Gordon was more than just a leader; he was a shepherd, a mentor, and a friend to countless individuals within our community and beyond.

Throughout his ministry, Pastor Gordon tirelessly served the needs of his flock, offering guidance, comfort, and unwavering support. His dedication to serving God and his community was evident in everything he did, from his passionate sermons to his countless acts of kindness.

Pastor Gordon’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched. He leaves behind a community of individuals who were inspired by his faith, challenged by his wisdom, and comforted by his compassion. His teachings and example will continue to guide us as we strive to live lives of service and dedication to God.

During this time of grief, we remember Pastor Gordon with love and admiration. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire City Road Baptist Church community. We are confident that his memory will be a cherished blessing to all who knew and loved him.

As we all know, Departure is saddening. We all have to deal with it one day. And when it comes to the loss of loved ones, the questions echo in the hollow spaces: What happens after this life? Will I see them again? And when it comes to the loss of loved ones, the questions echo in the hollow spaces: What happens after this life? Will I see them again?

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Paul writes to a young church grappling with such questions. He acknowledges their grief, saying, “We do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, so that you will not grieve as others do who have no hope.” (v. 13) He doesn’t dismiss their pain, but offers a glimmer of hope, a whispered promise that transcends earthly mourning.

This hope hinges on the “great mystery” (1 Corinthians 15:51) of Christ’s resurrection. Paul assures them, “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.” (v. 16) The image is awe-inspiring – a cosmic orchestra announcing the triumph of life over death, a trumpet call that pierces the silence of the grave.

But Paul doesn’t stop there. He comforts the living with a beautiful vision of reunion: “Then we who are still alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord.” (v. 17) This isn’t just a vague promise of an afterlife; it’s a picture of intimate connection, a joyful reunion woven into the very fabric of eternity.

This hope isn’t meant to erase grief, but to transform it. The tears may still flow, but now they mingle with the sweet nectar of anticipation. We grieve, yes, but not as those without hope. For death has been conquered, the sting of separation blunted by the promise of an unbreakable bond that transcends the very veil of mortality.

This doesn’t make everything easy. Grief is a complex journey, and the shadows of loss can linger. But remembering Paul’s words, clinging to the hope of Christ’s return, can light a candle in the darkness. It can remind us that our loved ones aren’t lost, but simply ahead on the path. It can whisper, “They’re waiting for you, and you for them, in the glorious embrace of Christ’s homecoming.”

So today, amidst the tears, hold onto hope. Let the promise of reunion be a balm to your aching heart. And when doubt creeps in, remember the trumpet call, the shout of victory, and the joyous gathering in the clouds. For in Christ, even death is a doorway, and grief a prelude to the unending melody of love that awaits.

Remember, dear friend, hope is not a fragile flame, but a blazing fire that even death cannot extinguish. Let it guide you through the shadows, illuminate your path, and warm your heart with the promise of love that stretches beyond the grave. For in Christ, there is no “goodbye,” only an eternal “togetherness.”

For in Christ, there is no “goodbye,” only an eternal “togetherness.”

Prayer: Dear Lord, in Your mercy, grant us the comfort of Your hope, the assurance of Christ’s promise. Fill our hearts with the vision of reunion, the joy of knowing that we are not separated forever. Grant us faith to walk through the valley of grief, holding onto the hand of Your unfailing love. And when doubt whispers, remind us of the trumpet call, the victory shout, and the day we will embrace our loved ones once again, forever bathed in the light of Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Spirit-filled symphony!

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On 13 January 2024, Saturday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Ephesians 5:18-20

Imagine an orchestra, instruments poised, waiting for the conductor’s signal. But instead of batons and sheet music, the conductor raises their hands, and a wave of pure resonance washes over the ensemble. Each instrument vibrates, not with pre-recorded notes, but with a spontaneous melody born from the shared connection with the conductor’s spirit.

That’s the essence of Ephesians 5:18-20: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Here, Paul paints a picture of a life not fueled by fleeting pleasures, but by the overflowing energy of the Holy Spirit. It’s about tuning our hearts, not to the intoxicating rhythm of the world, but to the divine melody playing within us.

This call to be “filled with the Spirit” echoes throughout the scriptures. John 7:38-39 promises, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from their inner being.” (NIV) And Galatians 5:22-23 lists the beautiful fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

Living this “Spirit-filled symphony” might seem elusive. But just as instruments don’t play themselves, we can’t force the Spirit’s music. It’s about surrendering our hearts, quieting the internal noise, and opening ourselves to the divine resonance.

This means silencing the clamor of doubts and anxieties, setting aside distractions that drain our spiritual energy, and actively seeking ways to nurture our connection with the Holy Spirit. Prayer, meditation, reading scripture, and serving others are all ways to tune our hearts to the divine melody.

And then, when we’re truly filled, the music begins to flow. It manifests in spontaneous conversations infused with kindness and joy, in acts of service motivated by pure love, in songs of gratitude that rise from the depths of our being. Our lives become living testimonials to the beauty and power of the Spirit’s music.

So today, let’s lay down the instruments of self-reliance and let the Holy Spirit take the baton. Let’s surrender our hearts and allow the divine melody to flow through us, touching lives and bringing glory to God in everything we do.

Remember, you are not just a spectator in God’s symphony; you are a vital instrument, playing your unique part in the breath-taking orchestration of His love. Let your life be a melody of hope, a song of compassion, a testament to the transformative power of the Spirit within you.

Prayer: Dear Lord, open my heart to the overflowing grace of your Spirit. Fill me with your divine melody, silencing the noise within and tuning me to your perfect rhythm. Grant me the wisdom to nurture this connection, the courage to let it flow through me, and the joy to sing your praises through every aspect of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Weaving the Web of Unity!

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On 12 January 2024, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Mann!

Scripture: Ephesians 4:2

Imagine a tapestry, a vibrant fabric woven from threads of different colors and textures. Each strand, distinct yet connected, contributes to the whole, creating a magnificent picture far grander than any individual thread could achieve.

That’s the beautiful image evoked by Ephesians 4:2: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Here, Paul paints a picture of the Christian community, not as a collection of isolated individuals, but as a woven tapestry, intricately connected by the threads of humility, gentleness, patience, and love.

Humility, the first thread, lays the foundation for unity. It’s about setting aside our pride and recognizing our inherent equality in Christ. As Philippians 2:3 reminds us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” (NIV)

Gentleness, the second thread, softens the edges of our differences. It’s about treating each other with kindness and understanding, remembering that we’re all on a journey of growth and grace. 1 Peter 3:8 beautifully reflects this spirit: “Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers and sisters, be tenderhearted, and be humble.” (NIV)

Patience, the third thread, binds us together when tempers flare and misunderstandings arise. It’s about choosing forbearance and forgiveness, refusing to let disagreements unravel the tapestry of our unity. As Colossians 3:13 encourages, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (NIV)

And finally, love, the golden thread, weaves it all together. It’s the driving force behind our humility, the essence of our gentleness, and the fuel for our patience. It’s the love of Christ flowing through us, binding us together in a beautiful, inseparable union. As John 13:34-35 proclaims, “A new commandment I give you: Love one another as I have loved you. Just as I have loved you, you also ought to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (NIV)

Living out this verse isn’t always easy. Differences of opinion, personality clashes, and past hurts can threaten to unravel the threads of our unity. But when we remember the tapestry we’re creating, when we focus on the love that binds us together, we find the strength to weave through challenges and emerge even stronger, our bond deepened by the very threads that threatened to tear it apart.

So today, let’s pledge to be the weavers of unity, actively contributing to the beautiful tapestry of the Christian community. Let’s humble ourselves before our fellow believers, extend gentle hands of understanding, embrace patience in the face of conflict, and allow the love of Christ to flow through us, binding us together in a glorious, love-woven web.

Remember, you are not just a thread in the tapestry; you are an integral part of the design. Weave your unique strengths and perspectives into the fabric of community, and let your life be a testament to the beauty and power of love that unites us all.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of our shared calling. Forgive our pride and our impatience. Grant us the humility to recognize our equality in your eyes, the gentleness to soothe and encourage one another, and the patience to persevere through challenges. Fill us with your love, Lord, and let it bind us together in a tapestry of unity, a testament to your grace and power in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Living the Soundtrack: Embracing Your Heavenly Tune!

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On 11 January 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Ephesians 4:1

Have you ever listened to a song so powerful it sent shivers down your spine, a melody that resonated deep within your soul? Imagine being invited to join the orchestra playing that very song, not just an audience member, but an active participant contributing your unique instrument to the divine symphony.

That’s the call in Ephesians 4:1: “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.” We, as believers, haven’t just received a heavenly invitation; we’ve been handed the sheet music, the instrument, and the opportunity to co-create a breath-taking masterpiece alongside the Divine Conductor.

But “walking worthy” isn’t about playing the loudest or most impressive notes. It’s about aligning your instrument – your heart, your actions, your words – with the key signature of God’s love. It’s about harmonizing with the melody of grace, letting it flow through you and touch the lives around you.

This divine harmony echoes throughout the scriptures. Proverbs 21:3 reminds us, “To do what is right and just is more desirable to the Lord than sacrifice.” (NIV) And Micah 6:8 tells us, “He has shown you what is good. What does the Lord require of you but to act justly and love mercy and walk humbly with your God?” (NIV)

Living this “soundtrack” of righteousness and love might seem challenging, but we’re not solo performers. We have the Holy Spirit as our musical director, tuning our hearts and guiding our notes (Romans 8:26). We have a whole orchestra of fellow believers, each playing their unique instruments, creating a symphony of unity and support (Galatians 6:2).

So, today, put your instrument to your heart and listen to the melody God has placed within you. Let go of the urge to perform for applause, and tune into the rhythm of His grace. Play your notes with humility and love, adding your unique voice to the beautiful composition of His kingdom.

Remember, you are more than just a listener in God’s symphony. You are a vital instrument, playing your unique part in the breath-taking soundtrack of His love. Let your life resonate with joy, compassion, and righteousness, a melody that touches hearts and brings glory to the Divine Conductor.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the invitation to co-create with you. Forgive my off-key notes and misplaced rhythms. Tune my heart to your melody, fill me with your Holy Spirit, and guide my hands on this divine instrument. Let my life be a song of love, a reflection of your grace, harmonizing with the orchestra of your people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Answering God’s Call Like Paul!

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On 9 January 2024, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Ephesians 3:7

Imagine a sculptor chipping away at a rough stone, slowly revealing the stunning figure veiled within. That’s how God shapes us, transforming our rough edges into vessels of His purpose. Paul, once a persecutor of Christians, experienced this transformation firsthand, becoming a cornerstone of God’s plan. In Ephesians 3:7, he declares, “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power.”

Paul’s call wasn’t a mere suggestion; it was a divine earthquake, shattering his old life and revealing a breath-taking purpose. He became a servant of this gospel, entrusted with spreading the Good News like wildfire. This echoes Jesus’ own words in Matthew 28:19: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (NIV)

But Paul knew he wasn’t chosen because of his own merit. He was a “lesser apostle” (1 Corinthians 15:9), humbled by the magnitude of the gift entrusted to him. He writes in 1 Timothy 1:12-14, “I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful and appointed me to his service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an arrogant man. But mercy was shown me so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus could display his immeasurable patience as an example for those who are going to believe in him for eternal life.” (NIV)

His words hold a mirror to our own hearts. Are we surprised by God’s grace, humbled by His choosing us for such a divine mission? Or do we approach the gospel with lukewarm indifference?

Remember, you are a chosen star, shining with the light of the gospel. Go forth and illuminate the world!

Like Paul, we are called to be ministers of grace, sharing the map of hope with those around us. We can live out Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (NIV)

Let’s step out of the shadows, embrace the gift of the gospel, and become the constellations God meant us to be. Let our lives, big or small, shine with the light that can guide others home.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the surprise of your grace and the wonder of your calling. Grant me the courage and humility to be a minister of your love, to share the gospel with a heart overflowing with your wonder. Help me see the constellations waiting to be lit, the stories waiting to be touched by your light. Guide me, empower me, and use me to bring Your light to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Remember, you are a chosen star, shining with the light of the gospel. Go forth and illuminate the world!

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Unwrapping a Hidden Gift: Unity in Christ!

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On 8 January 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Ephesians 3:6

Imagine holding a beautifully wrapped present, anticipation buzzing through your fingers. You peel back the layers of paper, each rustle adding to the mystery. Finally, you reach the box itself, adorned with ribbons and bows. But this isn’t just any gift; it’s a treasure chest brimming with unexpected riches.

Ephesians 3:6 feels like that – a verse overflowing with a truth so profound it takes your breath away: “This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.”

Gentiles and Jews, once separated by cultural and religious divisions, now stand as fellow heirs, inheriting the profound legacy of forgiveness, purpose, and eternal life through Christ. Beyond mere guests, believers become family, united as members of one body. Centuries of division between Jews and Gentiles dissolve through Jesus’ radical love, breaking down walls and inviting all, irrespective of ethnicity or background, into the banquet of divine grace.

The once-divided now share together in the promise of Christ – a promise encompassing redemption, restoration, and a future brimming with hope. This unifying message is woven into the tapestry of the gospel, transcending earthly boundaries to unite hearts under the banner of Christ’s love.

Yet, this transformative truth can be obscured by biases and preconceived notions. Political opinions, cultural preferences, and theological differences may cloud our vision. In the midst of these challenges, the gift of unity in Christ is easily forgotten, much like a hidden treasure chest gathering dust.

Today, the call is to unwrap Ephesians 3:6 as a precious present, allowing its truth to wash over us. It reminds us of the profound unity we share in Christ, prompting us to actively seek and celebrate our brothers and sisters, irrespective of differences. The invitation is to break down the walls we build and embrace the beautiful mosaic of faith we are called to be.

Lord, thank you for the gift of unity in Christ. Open our eyes to see beyond the things that divide us and help us embrace the incredible family we are in you. Fill our hearts with your love and guide us to build bridges of understanding and compassion. Amen.

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