Christian Tiews

Today we read Colossians 2. The Christian faith will not be replaced by man-made religion. Over the centuries, many have claimed to have found a substitute for Christ and His forgiveness… Sometimes these ideas are very impressive, and the lifestyles they conceive become extremely popular. But St Paul wrote, “Let God be true though every one were a liar” (Romans 3:4). These waves of man-made religion always end up breaking apart upon God’s truth in Jesus, who “is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Thank You, Lord, for granting me faith and preserving my faith with the wisdom and substance of Christ. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10342). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we start reading a new book of the New Testament, Paul’s letter to the Christian congregation in Colossae. *** All people suffer because of the fallen nature of the world. But Christians are called to a special form of suffering for the sake of Christ: rejection, ridicule, and persecution. No one likes suffering. Nevertheless, the tears of Christian suffering reflect the glory of the cross of Christ. Remember how God used Christ’s sufferings to save us. He will also use our sufferings to bring Christ’s saving work to others who have no hope. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10337). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Philippians 4. Paul’s last words in the Letter are greetings and blessings. Contrast Paul’s concern for greeting all and extending grace with our unwillingness to greet people in our own church communities. The grace of the Lord Jesus is so abundant that it flows over from Paul to us through this very Word and has the power to overflow from our lives into the lives of others, so that we genuinely greet and then extend God’s grace. • O give thanks to the Lord for His abundant grace! May His grace come continually to us and through us to others. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10298). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Philippians 3. Paul holds out before us our upward calling, his example, and the promise of our transformation in the resurrection. In contrast, we often focus on earthly comforts, worldly examples of success, and maintaining a youthful appearance for this life. But, while doing this, we starve our souls. Our citizenship is in heaven! Our life is in Christ, who reigns over all things in heaven and earth. • Dear Lord Jesus, turn us from the destructive ways of our human nature and turn us continually toward the heavenly calling and promises You have set before us. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10294). (Function). Kindle Edition.