SCRIPTURE: 1 Samuel 20-21; Psalm 34; Matthew 5
“In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.”
Matthew 5:48
OBSERVATIONS: This entire chapter concerns the advanced expectations of discipleship. Jesus tightens the meanings and raises the standards for those who would follow after him, but at the same time, offers the grace and mercy to accomplish these goals.
APPLICATION: Joey, keep growing up. As a subject of the kingdom, you bring disgrace when you let a careless word insult your brother. You bring suffering when you say things you don’t mean or fail to follow through. And you cause harm when you let your mind wander to thoughts that embarrass and degrade. Focus on the sharing of grace and agape love. And keep growing up.
PRAYER: God, for the moments I’ve failed you, I repent and offer my apology. I once thought I would leave sins of commission behind as I grew older. But omission and commission both trail after me into my middle years. Help me to chase after your Son that I might outdistance these imperfections. I pray in his name. Amen.
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