Discipleship Point
Matthew 5:7
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
From the Discipleship Covenant
Growth and setbacks along the path of discipleship:
As a disciple of Jesus, I should anticipate growth. I can also anticipate setbacks and disappointments, meaning I will need grace and forgiveness along the way from God, myself, and others. I envision the Holy Spirit making this happen in me, and so under His leadership, I commit to grow as a disciple in Christ using self-discipline and loving accountability from others.
Discipleship Prayer
Lord Jesus, I love it when I grow in You and Your Spirit leads me in paths of righteousness. When I make poor choices or fall short, remind me to repent and be gracious to myself as You are gracious to me. And when others disappoint me or fall short, remind me to be gracious and merciful to them as You are to me. I want to be an encourager, not a discourager. As the song says, "I want to be just like You"; Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
Psalm 119:89-96 12th letter: Lamed (ל)
- Your word, Lord, is eternal;
it stands firm in the heavens. - Your faithfulness continues through all generations;
you established the earth, and it endures. - Your laws endure to this day,
for all things serve you. - If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction. - I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have preserved my life. - Save me, for I am yours;
I have sought out your precepts. - The wicked are waiting to destroy me,
but I will ponder your statutes. - To all perfection I see a limit,
but your commands are boundless.
Read the verses of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Ephesians 6:13
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
The Promise
Isaiah 26:3
- You will keep in perfect peace
those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in you.
Pondering Point
From the human perspective, perfection is rare, fleeting, occasional – limited the Psalmist says. But in the realm of God, perfection knows no bounds. Wow!