Daily Devotion-August 8, 2022

Daily Devotion-August 8, 2022

James 3:16-18

In fact, where there is envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and every bad practice. But the wisdom that comes from above is first pure, then also peaceful, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who practice peace.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for this reminder; when envy and selfish ambition get involved, our sinful natures enjoy the “to do whatever it takes to get it done!” mentality. James wrote that it brings disorder and bad practices. We pray that you would keep us from chasing after our envious and selfish ways and instead love others the way you have loved us. We miss love’s mark and sin when we fail to put others first and love them the way you have told us. You have told us to love you above all other things and those around us as we love ourselves. When we fail at this, we pray for your forgiveness and ask for the wisdom of love that comes only from you. So that, we would love others being your witness of the love you have shown us. So guide us through your Spirit to realize the love you have shown us in sending your Son who died on the cursed tree—the cross—for our sins. Only through your love can our hearts be changed to know, believe, and trust in you; we pray for your Spirit to change us so that we have faith in your love which is the pure wisdom that comes from above. We pray, Lord, please give us spirits of peace, gentleness, mercy, and love, hearts that produce good fruits of impartial sincerity towards others. This wisdom only comes through you, and we pray that you would bless us this day so that we can exercise and share your peace. So through us, we will share the good news of your love and forgiveness with those who don’t yet know you. Change us to be the people you need us to be, those filled with love that comes only from you. Amen.

Written through Pastor Roger Emmons

While on this side of heaven, we will fall into our selfish ambition. Jesus has already forgiven that sin; we pray that others will also forgive us. So through our actions, no one would be deterred from hearing of Jesus’ love and forgiveness. Christ died for all people.