Therefore
God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every
name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth
and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to
the glory of God the Father.1
If
Christ is first in our lives, we will experience many blessings. These include:
A calm
spirit. As we turn our attention to the Lord and meditate on His Word, He leads
us "beside quiet waters," where we find rest for our souls (Psalm
23:2).
A
stronger faith. Studying the Bible will broaden our view of God and give us
knowledge and direction. Our faith will grow as we follow His guidance and see
how He works in our lives.
A
purified heart. Like a mirror, the Bible reflects who we are and reveals where
we need to change. When we confess our sin, God promises to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
A
prepared mind. God wants to prepare us for the future, both for times of joy
and for times of difficulty. Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we will
be equipped for whatever life throws at us (2 Peter 1:3).
Paul's
life is an example of what it means to give first place to Christ. Because of
what the Lord did in his life (Galatians 2:20), the apostle had joy in the
midst of trials and strength to face difficulties. These blessings will also be
ours if we prioritize our relationship with Christ.
Suggested
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, examine my heart and reveal to me in which areas
of my life I have not put you first. Forgive me because sometimes I put my
desires as a priority before You. Thank You for Your patience and mercy toward
me. Help me to be patient and merciful to others, to Your honor and glory. I
pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
1.
Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV).
Today's
Encounter was written by: Rosina N.