My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, while Satan and his followers are doing their thing, we as the body of Christ need to do our thing – preach the Word.  We need to proclaim the gospel of Christ to people yet living in their sins.  Just as we were convicted concerning our old way of living, so are there wicked men and wicked women desiring redemption from sin.  They want a way out, but they don’t know how to break free from the seductive tentacles of sin.  Drug addiction, sex addiction, gambling addiction, etc… have many people in misery right now.  People involved in the perverse passions of the flesh are like time bombs waiting to detonate at any moment.  Therefore, while the world is preaching being internet active, instant messaging, blogs, online dating and cell phones, we as saints of God need to remain true to our holy calling in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Build up the household of faith and do not allow your soul to be driven into despair by the diverse temptations you face in this world.  I know that the way gets hard sometimes, but through God’s grace, you can fulfill your ministry in the Lord with all vigilance. 

Devotional reading for today:  I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.  (KJV)

Devotional reflection for this week:  Should Christians only feel obligated to do service for the Lord on Sunday?  Is there no eternal significance for the work Christians do for the glory of God?  Is the Christian life most accurately described as a life of convenience?  (Why not?)  Is it reasonable to assume people will follow you because you are able to present the gospel in a cogent fashion?  Will pastors ever have to correct, reprove, or cheer the saints they lead? 

Devotional prayer:  Gracious Heavenly Father, give me strength to fulfill my ministry in the Lord with all holiness.  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.

May Jesus bless you as you honestly think through the questions raised in the devotional reflection for this week.

Love,

Pastor Patrick Neil Addison, Sr.