1.11.26 Sermon Devotionals

Tuesday, January 13th

Day 1: The Danger of Spiritual Presumption

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1-5

Devotional: The Israelites witnessed God's miraculous provision—the parting of the Red Sea, daily manna, water from rocks—yet most died in the wilderness, displeasing God. This sobering truth confronts us today: spiritual blessings don't guarantee spiritual maturity. We can attend church, know Scripture, and experience God's grace, yet still fail to please Him through our choices and attitudes. God's love for us is unconditional, but our response matters eternally. Like an athlete who trains with discipline, we must steward our blessings faithfully. Today, examine your heart: Are you presuming on God's grace while living carelessly? Gratitude and obedience should mark those who've received so much.

Reflection Question: What spiritual blessings have you been taking for granted?

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Wednesday, January 14th

Day 2: Actions Have Eternal Consequences

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:6-10

Devotional: Paul lists five sins that destroyed Israel: lust, idolatry, sexual immorality, testing God, and complaining. These weren't minor infractions—thousands died as consequences. The sobering reality is that sin always costs more than we expect. Sexual immorality, discontentment, and grumbling may seem manageable, but they poison our souls and hinder God's mission through us. God isn't trying to restrict our fun; He's protecting us from destruction. The examples of history aren't meant to frighten us into compliance but to awaken us to reality. Every choice matters. Every hidden sin has ripple effects. God disciplines those He loves because our lives are meant for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

Reflection Question: What "small" sin have you been tolerating that needs to be addressed?

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Thursday, January 15th

Day 3: The Pride That Precedes the Fall

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:12; Proverbs 16:18

Devotional: "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall." These words should echo in every believer's heart. The moment we think we're above temptation is precisely when we're most vulnerable. History is littered with spiritual leaders who fell into the same sins they warned others about—not because they lacked knowledge, but because pride blinded them to their own weakness. Humility recognizes our constant need for God's grace and the accountability of fellow believers. We're all capable of terrible things apart from Christ. This isn't pessimism; it's realism that drives us to dependence on God. The fortress falls when everyone assumes it's safe. Stay vigilant. Stay humble.

Reflection Question: In what area of your life have you become spiritually overconfident?

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Friday, January 16th

Day 4: God's Faithful Promise of Escape

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:13

Devotional: Here stands one of Scripture's most encouraging promises: God will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear, and He will provide a way of escape. This isn't a promise that life will be easy, but that victory is always possible. Your temptations aren't unique—humanity has faced them for millennia—but God's faithfulness is equally timeless. He knows your breaking point and won't abandon you. The question isn't whether escape exists, but whether you'll take it. Will you confess your struggles? Surround yourself with godly people? Fill your mind with truth? Submit to accountability? God has done His part; now we must do ours, trusting His power working within us.

Reflection Question: What "way of escape" has God provided that you've been ignoring?

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Saturday, January 17th

Day 5: Stewarding Your Spiritual Blessings

Reading: Luke 12:48; 1 Peter 4:10

Devotional: "To whom much is given, much is required." As believers, we've received the ultimate blessing—salvation through Christ, adoption into God's family, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the righteousness of Jesus credited to our account. These aren't rewards for good behavior but unmerited gifts of grace. Yet with these blessings comes responsibility. We're called to steward them well, not wasting our lives on trivial pursuits while a dying world needs the gospel. The Israelites squandered their opportunity, dying in the wilderness despite God's faithfulness. Will we learn from their mistakes? Your life matters eternally. Don't be disqualified through carelessness. Run the race with discipline, purpose, and gratitude.

Reflection Question: How are you actively stewarding the spiritual blessings God has given you?