Home > Reading > NALC Devotions – October 11, 2017

Today’s readings: 1 Kings 22:1-28; 1 Corinthians 2:1-13; Matthew 4:18-25

Thank you Holy Spirit! Without your help I would be like those in the world who say, what has God got to do with it? What has God got to do with my success, abilities, or seized opportunities? I worked hard to earn my pay. I climbed the corporate ladder by the sweat of my brow and wits. I honed my skills so that when opportunity comes I am ready to take it.

I am a faithful spouse, good parent and decent provider. I am a good citizen. I pay taxes and help the poor. I vote and obey the law. I donate my Saturdays to help build houses. I help coach youth sports for disadvantaged children. My friends tell me I am a nice person, an example to others. Therefore, by all rights, I should go to heaven. I have earned it. The wisdom of the world would say a resounding yes! But the message of the Cross says no.

Our works without God’s grace are “filthy rags.” The wisdom of God says, Jesus, by His death and resurrection, is the only way. Without the Holy Spirit, I could never understand the message of the Cross.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to always look to you for wisdom, and not seek the wisdom of this world. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Steven King, Pastor of Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lincolnton, NC.

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