Marie’s daily verse:  In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” LUKE 15:10

DAILY DEVOTION, April 23, 2023

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2).

These two verses are profound. We are surrounded by other Christians, both in heaven and on earth, who encourage us. When tempted to fall into sin, we need to listen to that cloud of witnesses surrounding us and lay the sin aside. Sin is described as a weight. It is heavy, pulling us in the wrong direction. Our sinful desires all too easily entrap us.

As we continue to look unto Jesus, trusting Him, loving Him, and remembering Him when we are tempted, we receive strength from Him to resist the sin tempting us. Jesus is the author of our faith and finisher of our faith. Faith begins and ends with Jesus. When Jesus understood His death would atone for our sins, He was filled with joy. The cross was a painful reality, but He endured it for our sakes. We need to remember Jesus on the cross when tempted to disobey God. His suffering brought us forgiveness and strength to live a new life. So let us live it!

Father, when I contemplate the suffering Jesus endured for me, I feel both remorseful and grateful. I am so sorry that my disobedience caused Him so much pain, but I am also thankful that He was willing to endure the cross for my sake. I want to rededicate myself to Him out of gratitude for what He has done for me. In His name, I pray, Amen.