Daily Devotional
Are You Like a Gardenia in a Desert?
“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.”
Philippians 2:14-16
May 27, 2023
Ponder This
Has anyone ever asked what was different about you? I want to submit: if we’re living under the lordship of Christ, if we’re living as the Apostle Peter says we ought to be living, people will ask for an explanation of our lives. Paul and Silas were perfect examples of this. In Acts 16, they were in prison for preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They were in the innermost prison, a disgusting place, and at midnight, they were praying and singing praise to God. The jailer had probably heard cursing from prisoners, but not praising. He’d often heard moaning, but not singing. He could not understand it. After an earthquake hit the jail, when Paul and Silas did not flee, the jailer came and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (v. 30). Why? He saw the difference in Paul and Silas. I hope people can see a difference in my life. I hope people who know me can say, “He is different.” I hope people who know you can say, “He has hope! She has hope! This person stands out like a gardenia in a desert of mediocrity and filth.”
- Who have you seen live differently because of their relationship with Jesus?
- What challenges are you facing that could be opportunities to stand out in faith and joy?
Practice This
Encourage a Christian you know who has stood out by living differently.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
