Devotional - June 19, 2024

Scripture: Galatians 3: 10-11 For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.” (Deut 27:26) Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because “the righteous will live by faith.” (Habakkuk 2:4).

Paul's argument is clear.  The One who bore the curse, our curse, was Jesus Christ on the cross.  Therefore, justification before God now is found in Christ alone.  That's right folks, the one who bore our (yours and mine) curse was Christ.  In some ways it seems so simple to understand and yet in others, difficult.  We believe in Christ and what Jesus did on the cross.  We believe He has risen, and all things are under His authority (Ephesians 1:22-23).  So, why are things the way they are in the world?  If Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords (1 Timothy 6:15, Rev 19:16), why so much chaos?  I fear many having questions like this have left the faith because of it.  It's understandable.  If God is not going to do anything about the chaos, why should anyone follow or even believe in God?  They might as well make the best of their existence while they still can.  Believers may even mumble this under their breath a time or two as well.  At times, keeping the faith is hard, but it is also rewarding.  Remember, you are not alone.  God is with you.  And God has not tasked you to fix everything.  Remember the verse in the hymn, This Is My Fathers World, sometimes the wrong seems oft so strong.  But remember, it's not your job to right every wrong.  No, God has asked you to abide (John 15: 4-11) and do what you can when you can (Matt 6: 25-34).  And that goes for inside us as well as outside of us.  Paul, in this text reminds us not to get lost in fulfilling Law, but instead to believe in Christ our Savior.  But more than just believe, know what that relationship entails and be what God calls each of us to be (Matt 5: 13-16).  And yes, amidst it all, enjoy it (Colossians 3: 15-17).  You will fail and fall, but enjoy too (2 Cor 12:9).  Tomorrow is the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, enjoy every minute of it! 

God's peace,

Pastor Brian