Unclean

Scripture: "What comes out of a man is what makes him 'unclean.'" Mark 7:20

Observation: Obviously, no one is perfect and there is so much evil in this world. It is what is in my hearts that make me unclean.

Application: Jesus lists a few evil thoughts: sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. I certainly have had a few of these! I am very much unclean. And I'm also human. But I should strive to be more like Christ.

Prayer: Lord, I am so unclean, but I know that You can make me clean. Just like I was baptized in your Word, You can shower me with Your love and forgiveness and make me clean again. I know this happens on a daily occurrence so I end up dirty again at the end of each day! Thank you for giving me a clean body, heart and mind when I need a shower. Amen.

Goodness and Love

Scripture: "Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." (Psalm 23:6)

Observation: David had so much faith in God and trusted Him completely.

Application: I need to have that kind of faith, knowing that goodness and love will follow me because the Lord loves me that much. If I dwell in the house of the Lord forever, what is there but goodness and love?

Prayer: Even through the hard times, Lord, I know You are with me. Like David, I have Your goodness and unfailing love with me. Please help me remember that on a daily basis. Amen.

Giving

Scripture: "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" (Acts 20:35)

Observation: Although receiving does feel great, giving feels even better. It sounds pretty cheesy, but I think it's true.

Application: I do tend to give quite a bit in different ways: I donate money to various charities, I like to give thoughtful gifts, I really make an effort to maintain relationships. But I probably need to give more of myself to God and do more of His good works.

Prayer: Lord, I think I'm a pretty good "giver", but please reveal to me how I can be a better giver for Your glory. I know now is not exactly the best time, being pregnant and all, but maybe there are little things that I can do? Just let me know! Amen.

Forgiveness

Scripture: "Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you." (Acts 13:38)

Observation: Only through Jesus's sacrifice am I forgiven from my sins.

Application: Just because I'm a "good person" doesn't mean my sins are forgiven or that I'm going to Heaven. I can't do good deeds or butter my way into God's heart. Only through Jesus's death and resurrection am I forgiven.

Prayer: Lord, I know I am forgiven because of You. Jesus paid my all of my debts in full-- past, present and future-- so that I may be nearer to You. I am eternally grateful and humbled that You love me that much. Amen.