Scripture to Read: Galatians 5:18–24
This week our focus is on being “A Jesus-Centered Church.” As we begin our devotions, we need to remember that “the church” includes each local body of believers on the face of the earth. “The church” also consists of each member of God’s family, for we are Christ’s body, and He lives in us (1 Corinthians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 6:19–20). “The church” is not a building and it’s not where we meet, though many people still talk about the building as if God lives in the building where they meet. As followers of Christ, we have to make sure we help those still lost in their sin understand that Christ came to dwell in each follower of His. Therefore, knowing that Christ lives in us, we must daily pursue our fellowship with Christ and His Word to be a Jesus-centered church. We struggle with pursuing our fellowship with Christ and His Word because our “flesh” desires just the opposite. God makes this clear in Galatians 5:17, For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. Knowing our flesh battles with the Holy Spirit in us, we must choose to crucify our flesh continuously and submit to God’s Holy Spirit in us. That is why God tells us in Galatians 5:24, Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. So, being Jesus-centered starts with our daily pursuit of Him.
Challenge & Application
· What is one takeaway from today’s devotion that helps you become more Jesus-centered in your life?
· How will you apply what God has taught you, and who will you share with what God has taught you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!