Devotional by Aria Guillory
In the month of December, BC will be entering a series called “Staying strong while staying close.” In this series, we will go over different ways in which we can stay close to God while going through the trials that the world hurls at us!
“I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars.” - Revelation 2:2
Discernment brings us to an understanding only God gives. When talking about discernment while serving, it’s to evaluate your heart. Do you say, “Okay God, I showed up this morning! I did what you asked! Just let me have my way now!” Or when you show up do you talk to God like “Okay God I’m here. I’m going to be intentional and I’m going to serve your children because I get to, not because I have to.”
Reading this passage brings me to three claims about not becoming hard-hearted while serving in any capacity.
1. Hard Work and Patient Endurance create Intimacy
2. Intimacy cannot co-exist with a Hard Heart
3. Intimacy with God bears the fruit while Serving
A Prayer to not Become Hard-Hearted: “Father, I thank you for seeing me. Thank you for allowing me to serve you. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in any capacity. I pray that as I enter these environments to not allow myself to become hard hearted. Never let me stray too far from you, Father. Thank you again for who you are and all that you do for us so we get to give it back to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
