Daily Manna

Daily Devotions from the Bible!

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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.

We’ve The Mind of Christ!

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On 16 May 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:15-16

In 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 (NIV), we are given a profound insight into the spiritual life: “The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments, for, ‘Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?’ But we have the mind of Christ.”

This passage speaks to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in granting believers the ‘mind of Christ,’ enabling them to discern and evaluate life from a divine perspective. It reminds us that with the Spirit, we are not confined to human wisdom; we are elevated to understand and judge all things according to God’s will.

An inspiring biblical example of this is found in the life of Joseph. Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused, and imprisoned, Joseph faced circumstances that could have led to despair and bitterness. Yet, he maintained a godly perspective, discerning God’s hand at work even in his suffering. When he interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, he did not credit his own wisdom but acknowledged God as the source of his insight (Genesis 41:16). Joseph’s ability to discern and make judgments, leading to the salvation of Egypt and his family from famine, was a direct result of the ‘mind of Christ’ within him.

Cross-referencing this with Romans 11:34, “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” we see a consistent theme: the depth of God’s wisdom is unsearchable, yet through the Spirit, we are given access to understand His will.

As we seek to apply this truth to our lives, let us strive to cultivate the ‘mind of Christ.’ This means spending time in prayer and Scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to renew our thoughts and attitudes. It involves trusting in God’s sovereignty, especially in difficult situations, and seeking His guidance in our decisions.

Prayer: Father God, we thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, which grants us the mind of Christ. Help us to discern Your will in all things and to make judgments that honor You. May our lives reflect Your wisdom and love, and may we serve as instruments of Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Power of God’s Wisdom!

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On 14 May 2024, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5

In 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, the Apostle Paul speaks to the church in Corinth with a profound humility and dependence on God’s power. He did not rely on eloquent speech or human wisdom but on the demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that their faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.

Let us consider the story of David and Goliath as an inspiring example. Young David, armed only with a sling and a few stones, faced the giant Goliath. In human terms, David stood no chance against the seasoned warrior. Yet, David declared, “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). He trusted not in human strength but in the power of God. David’s victory over Goliath was a demonstration of God’s power, not human might.

Paul’s approach in Corinth mirrors David’s reliance on God. Paul came in weakness and fear, much like David before Goliath. Yet, he spoke of Christ crucified, a message that seemed foolish to the Greeks and a stumbling block to the Jews. But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:23-24).

Paul’s message was simple: Jesus Christ and Him crucified. It was not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power. This power transformed lives and established a church in the heart of a city known for its wisdom and eloquence.

As we reflect on this passage, let us remember that our faith should not rest on human wisdom but on the power of God. It is not our eloquent words that will convince others of the truth of the Gospel, but the work of the Holy Spirit in their hearts.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in humility, acknowledging our weakness and our need for Your strength. Help us to rely not on our wisdom but on Your power. May Your Spirit work through us as we share the message of Christ crucified. Let our faith be grounded in You alone, and may others see Your power at work in us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God’s Wisdom in Weakness!

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On 13 May 2024, Monday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

In 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, the Apostle Paul highlights the paradoxical nature of God’s wisdom, which often works through what the world considers foolish and weak. He reminds the Corinthian believers that God intentionally chooses the foolish, weak, and lowly things of the world to shame the wise and strong, so that no one may boast before Him.

Paul writes, “Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: ‘Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.'” (1 Corinthians 1:26-31, NIV)

Paul’s words serve as a humbling reminder that our worth and significance do not come from worldly wisdom or status but from God’s gracious choice and provision. He intentionally chooses the seemingly insignificant and weak to confound the wisdom and strength of the world, demonstrating His sovereignty and glory.

Consider the story of Gideon in Judges 6-8. Gideon was the least in his family and from the weakest clan in Israel. Yet, God chose him to lead Israel in defeating the Midianites. With just 300 men armed with torches and trumpets, God brought about a great victory, showcasing His power and wisdom through weakness.

As believers, we are called to embrace our weaknesses and limitations, knowing that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Let us boast not in our own wisdom or strength but in the Lord, who is our righteousness, holiness, and redemption.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your wisdom, which surpasses human understanding. Help us to embrace our weaknesses and limitations, knowing that Your power is made perfect in our weakness. May we boast only in You, who are our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. May Your glory be revealed through our lives, as we trust in Your sovereign wisdom and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Foolishness of the Cross!

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On 12 May 2024, Sunday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18-19

In 1 Corinthians 1:18-19, the Apostle Paul contrasts the wisdom of the world with the foolishness of the message of the cross. He reminds believers that while the message of the cross may seem foolish to the world, it is the power of God for salvation to those who believe.

Paul writes, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: ‘I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.'” (1 Corinthians 1:18-19, NIV)

Paul’s words challenge us to reconsider our understanding of wisdom and power in light of the message of the cross. In a world that values human intellect and achievement, the message of a crucified Savior may seem nonsensical. Yet, Paul reminds us that it is through the apparent foolishness of the cross that God demonstrates His power to save.

Consider the story of the thief on the cross in Luke 23:39-43. As Jesus hung on the cross, mocked and scorned by those around Him, a criminal crucified alongside Him recognized His innocence and cried out for mercy. In response, Jesus assured him of salvation, promising that he would be with Him in paradise. This encounter demonstrates the transformative power of the message of the cross, offering hope and salvation even to the most unlikely of candidates.

As modern-day believers, we are called to embrace the apparent foolishness of the message of the cross and to proclaim it boldly to a world in need of salvation. Let us trust in the power of God to transform hearts and lives through the message of Christ crucified.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the message of the cross, which is the power of God for salvation to all who believe. Help us to embrace its apparent foolishness and to proclaim it boldly to those around us. May Your Spirit work in the hearts of those who hear, transforming them and bringing them to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. In His name, we pray, Amen.

Abundant Grace and Fellowship!

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On 11 May 2024, Saturday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:4-9

In 1 Corinthians 1:4-9, the Apostle Paul begins his letter to the Corinthians by expressing gratitude for God’s abundant grace and the fellowship they share in Christ Jesus. He highlights the faithfulness of God in equipping them for every good work and preserving them until the coming of the Lord.

Paul writes, “I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:4-9, NIV)

Paul’s words reflect a deep sense of gratitude for the believers in Corinth and the spiritual blessings they have received through Christ. He emphasizes the sufficiency of God’s grace and the certainty of His faithfulness in sustaining them until the day of Christ’s return.

Consider the story of the early church in Acts 2:42-47. After the day of Pentecost, the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. They experienced a deep sense of community and shared everything they had, praising God and enjoying favor with all the people. This example of vibrant fellowship and mutual support exemplifies the kind of unity and spiritual enrichment that Paul celebrates in his letter to the Corinthians.

As modern-day believers, we are called to cultivate a similar spirit of gratitude and fellowship within the body of Christ. Let us thank God for His abundant grace and faithfulness, and let us strive to build each other up in faith, eagerly awaiting the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your abundant grace and faithfulness towards us. Help us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and fellowship within the body of Christ, as we eagerly await the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Keep us firm in our faith, knowing that You are faithful to preserve us blameless until that day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Called to be Saints!

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On 10 May 2024, Friday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:1-3

“Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes, To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 1:1-3, NIV)

In the vibrant city of Corinth, the Apostle Paul penned a letter to a community of believers, reminding them of their divine calling. In his opening words, he establishes their identity and purpose in Christ.

Paul’s message resonates with us today, inviting us to recognize our identity as saints, set apart for God’s purposes. Our sanctification is not earned but graciously bestowed upon us through Christ. We are called to live lives that reflect His character and love in the world.

Consider the early Christians in Corinth, navigating a culture marked by immorality and idolatry. Despite the challenges, they were called to be a beacon of light, embodying the gospel message in their daily lives. Their example urges us to embrace our calling as saints, regardless of our circumstances.

As modern-day believers, we are called to embrace our identity as saints and live accordingly. This means pursuing holiness and allowing the love of Christ to shine through us. It means standing firm in our faith, even in the face of opposition, knowing that our allegiance is to Christ alone.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us to be saints, sanctified in Christ Jesus. Help us to live lives that honor you, reflecting your love and grace to the world. Strengthen us in our faith, that we may stand firm in our calling despite the challenges we face. May our lives be a testimony to your goodness and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Guarding Against Division!

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On 9 May 2024, Thursday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 16:17-19

In Romans 16:17-19, the Apostle Paul warns the believers in Rome about the danger of division and false teaching within the church. He urges them to be vigilant and to hold fast to the teachings of Scripture, resisting anything that threatens to undermine their faith.

Paul writes, “I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.” (Romans 16:17-19, NIV)

Paul’s words remind us of the importance of guarding against false teaching and division within the body of Christ. He encourages believers to stay rooted in the truth of God’s Word and to be discerning of those who seek to lead them astray.

Consider the story of the Berean Jews in Acts 17:10-12. When Paul preached the gospel to them, they listened eagerly but also examined the Scriptures daily to see if what Paul said was true. Their example of diligent study and discernment serves as a model for us today, reminding us to test all teachings against the standard of God’s Word.

As modern-day believers, we are called to follow the example of the Bereans, diligently studying the Scriptures and holding fast to the truth. Let us be vigilant against division and false teaching, standing firm in our faith and striving for unity in the body of Christ.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Help us to be vigilant against division and false teaching, and to hold fast to the truth of Your Word. Give us wisdom and discernment to recognize and reject anything that contradicts Your teachings. May we be united in our faith and steadfast in our commitment to following You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Coming Soon….

Empowered to Encourage!

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On 8 May 2024, Wednesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 15:14-16

In Romans 15:14-16, the Apostle Paul expresses his confidence in the believers in Rome, affirming their ability to encourage one another and spread the gospel. He reminds them of their calling as servants of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit for ministry.

Paul writes, “I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another. Yet I have written you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles with the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:14-16, NIV)

Paul’s words affirm the believers’ capacity to encourage and instruct one another in the faith. He acknowledges their spiritual maturity and the role they play in advancing the kingdom of God. Paul himself sees his ministry as a stewardship of God’s grace, aimed at proclaiming the gospel to the Gentiles and bringing them into God’s family.

Consider the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch from Acts 8:26-40. Philip, guided by the Holy Spirit, encountered the eunuch reading from the book of Isaiah but struggling to understand its meaning. Philip explained the Scriptures to him, leading the eunuch to understand and accept the gospel message. This encounter demonstrates the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in equipping believers for effective ministry.

As modern-day believers, we are called to embrace our role as ministers of the gospel, empowered by the Holy Spirit to share God’s love and truth with others. Let us draw inspiration from the example of Philip and the believers in Rome, recognizing our competence and responsibility to instruct and encourage one another in the faith.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the empowerment of Your Holy Spirit, enabling us to serve You effectively. Help us to recognize our calling as ministers of the gospel and to encourage and instruct one another in the faith. May we be faithful stewards of Your grace, proclaiming Your truth and leading others into a deeper relationship with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Coming Soon….

Bearing with One Another!

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On 7 May 2024, Tuesday

In Biblical, New Testament

Today’s Manna!

Scripture: Romans 15:1-4

In Romans 15:1-4, the Apostle Paul imparts wisdom to the believers in Rome, urging them to bear with the failings of the weak and to build up one another in love. He emphasizes the importance of unity and mutual encouragement, drawing inspiration from the example of Christ.

Paul writes, “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: ‘The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.’ For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” (Romans 15:1-4, NIV)

Paul’s words echo the selfless example of Christ, who bore the insults and burdens of humanity out of love. He calls believers to follow Christ’s example, seeking to uplift and encourage one another in their faith journey.

Consider the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Despite facing betrayal and hardship at the hands of his brothers, Joseph chose to forgive and reconcile with them. His example of grace and compassion demonstrates the transformative power of forgiveness and reconciliation.

As modern-day believers, we are called to emulate Joseph’s example, extending grace and understanding to those around us. Let us seek to bear with one another’s failings and build each other up in love, drawing inspiration from the enduring teachings of Scripture.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of Christ and the enduring teachings of Scripture. Help us to bear with one another’s failings and to build each other up in love. Give us the grace to forgive as we have been forgiven and the courage to extend grace and understanding to those around us. May our lives be a testimony to Your love and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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