1.18.26 Sermon Devotionals

Jan 20, 2026

Tuesday, January 20th

Day 1: Undivided Loyalty

Reading: 1 Kings 18:16-21

Devotional: Elijah confronted Israel with a piercing question: "How long will you waver between two opinions?" The people of God were trying to serve both the Lord and Baal, creating a divided loyalty that dishonored God. Today, we face the same temptation, not with ancient idols, but with careers, relationships, possessions, and even traditions that compete for God's throne in our hearts. Idolatry is misplaced worship, loving or trusting something more than God. This week, examine your life honestly. What receives your best energy, deepest affection, and ultimate trust? Your baptism declared allegiance to Christ alone. Does your daily life confirm that declaration? Remember, you cannot drink from both the cup of the Lord and the cup of compromise. Choose today whom you will serve.

Weekly Reflection Question: If someone watched your life closely this week, who would they conclude you truly belong to? What one change can you make to more clearly demonstrate your allegiance to Christ?

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Wednesday, January 21st

Day 2: Freedom with Responsibility

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:23-24

Devotional: "All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful." Paul reminds us that Christian freedom is real but never detached from responsibility. We've been liberated from sin's penalty and power, yet our liberty must be governed by love for others and loyalty to Christ. The question isn't merely "Can I do this?" but "Will this help others see Christ?" Every choice we make either builds up or tears down those watching our lives. Our freedom becomes a powerful witness when we willingly lay aside personal rights for another's spiritual welfare. Think about your recent decisions. Were they driven by what you're allowed to do, or by what would help others grow closer to God? True freedom is using your liberty to serve others, not yourself.

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Thursday, January 22nd

Day 3: The Supreme Rule

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:31-33

Devotional: "Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." This isn't just a nice sentiment; it's the supreme rule that should govern every believer's life. Making much of God in everything, eating, drinking, working, playing, speaking, transforms ordinary moments into acts of worship. Your entire life becomes a testimony to God's supreme worthiness. Consider this: people may not know your theology, but they can quickly tell who you represent by how you live. You're wearing a jersey that declares your allegiance. Does your daily conduct clearly communicate loyalty to Jesus? The eternal destinies of those around you hang in the balance. Will your choices today make God look great or create confusion about where your true loyalty lies? Live consumed with magnifying Christ in all things.

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Friday, January 23rd

Day 4: Love That Builds Up

Reading: 1 Corinthians 8:1-3, 9-13

Devotional: Knowledge can make us arrogant, but love builds up. Paul addresses believers who were technically correct about their freedom but spiritually insensitive to weaker brothers and sisters. The mark of spiritual maturity isn't flaunting your liberty; it's sacrificing your rights so others can grow. Agape love, the self-giving love of God, should regulate how we use our freedom. Are you willing to give up something permissible if it causes another believer to stumble? This isn't about legalism; it's about prioritizing someone else's spiritual welfare above your personal preferences. Think of the people in your life, family, coworkers, fellow believers. Do your choices help them move toward Christ or create obstacles? True love considers the eternal impact of every decision. Choose to be a builder, not a stumbling block.

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Saturday, January 24th

Day 5: Don't Die in the Wilderness

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Devotional: Israel was redeemed from Egypt but died in the wilderness because they refused to trust God. They were saved from slavery but missed the abundant life of the Promised Land. Paul warns us not to follow their example. You've been redeemed by Christ's blood, don't waste your freedom by chasing after idols or living for yourself. The abundant Christian life isn't automatic; it requires ongoing trust and obedience. Every day presents a choice: Will you trust God's way or demand your own? Will you live for His glory or your comfort? Don't assume you'll always have tomorrow to get serious about God. None of us are guaranteed another day. Today is the day to evaluate: Is your life consumed with loyalty to Christ, love for others, and living for God's glory? Don't die in the wilderness of wasted potential. Press forward into the fullness God offers.