Scripture Union Daily Guide 5th January 2025 (Saturday) Devotional Message
TOPIC: You are the Salt and Light of the World
OPENING PRAYER: Dear Lord, may the entrance of your word bring light and life to all I will do today.
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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:13-26
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
► Q3: Is there any command for me to obey?
► Q7: What truth is God revealing to me in this passage?
Jesus’ teaching on the Beatitudes – the lifestyle and character of a true Christian, must result in being salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16). Salt is used for cleansing and preservation from decay. Christians are to prevent corruption in all its forms in the community in which they live and work.
Light drives out darkness and provides clear direction. Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12) and Christians should reflect His light to the world. The attractive quality of the Christian lifestyle will draw other people to live similarly and to glorify God (read Matthew 5:16 again). Christians whose values and lifestyles are not different and distinct in the places they live and work, fail in their Christian witness of being “Salt and Light.”
Jesus came to fulfil the Law by offering Himself as a sacrifice for the sin of the world (Matthew 5:17-20, 1 John 2:2). How do we obtain a righteousness that is better than that of the Pharisee (Matthew 5:20, cf. 2 Corinthians 5:21)? Notice the two illustrations Jesus gives on reconciliation in the community (Matthew 5:23-26). “Will be liable to hellfire (Gehenna, Matthew 5:22b)” is a metaphor Jesus uses for permanent physical and spiritual torment awaiting the wicked. Christians are to deal with conflict and work for reconciliation in all areas of life (see Romans 12:14-21).
What is the best advice you have received on how to deal with anger? (Read Ephesians 4:26-27).
* Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Offer a prayer of faith in line with: Luke 9:1
Closing Prayer: Lord, “may the beauty of Jesus be seen in me – all His wondrous compassion and purity.” Make me relevant wherever I am, Lord.
One Bible Reading Guide:
Genesis 7-8, Psalms 7.
PRAYER BULLETIN FOR TODAY:
PRAYER FOCUS
BIBLE READING PROMOTION IN SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES
You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. Jer. 29:13
THANK GOD FOR:
* How far he has helped us in promoting the reading of the bible among children, young people and adults • His holy spirit that is already at work, revealing God to as many as are reading the bible and praying everyday
PRAY FOR:
* God to open the eyes of many more to this worthy and excellent culture for the nurture of their spirit man • More SU members will be committed to BRP at every available opportunity • Pray for travelling mercies and God’s presence at the Senior staff retreat starting today at TCC, Ibadan.
Scripture Union is an international, interdenominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God. (Scripture Union Daily Guide 5th January 2025)
