Day 313: We Serve a Living God

Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 9:11-28

Central Thought: Only God knows fully what power is released through our belief in the cleansing blood of Christ.

One reason I enjoy writing online devotions is to motivate me to open my Bible and read it. It is true that I should not need a reason to prompt me to spend time in the Word of God. I know that I can pray and ask God to give me a sincere desire to study. But my heart grows cold from time to time. I get so used to hearing the gospel message that I take it for granted. Reading the following verse from Hebrews has re-awakened my heart and mind:

How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! (Hebrews 9:14, NIV)

Only God knows the special power that is released through our belief in the cleansing blood of Christ. I am beginning to understand why Christ’s sacrifice is so special.

The Moravians settled the area near where I live. They were Christians who had a desire to evangelize and live among the Native American Indian tribes. At one time the church leaders wrote and preached extensively about the blood of Christ. Many of the Moravian’s old hymns praise the blood of Jesus. The blood of Christ has a purpose; it cleanses our hearts and consciences so we can serve God even better.

The other message in this passage is that Jesus is coming again to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him. I want to be waiting for Christ’s return. Are you waiting for Him? It is time to learn how to wait.

Devotional Prayer: God, thank You for the precious blood of Jesus. Help us to realize how precious this sacrifice is and to unashamedly tell others of the Cross and of Christ shedding His blood for the redemption of all mankind. Help us joyously desire Your return as You teach us what it means to wait with expectation as we serve a living God.

Today’s Bible Reading: Ezekiel 20:1-; Hebrews 9:11-28; Psalm 107:1-43; Proverbs 27:11