The Upper Room Daily Devotional 4th August 2023
The Upper Room 4th August 2023 Daily Devotional, Friday Message by Cole Beckloff (South Dakota, USA)
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TOPIC: Only Forgiveness
TODAY’S READING
John 21:15-17
Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. – Luke 22:60 (NIV)
Every day as I climb out of bed, I am troubled with thoughts like these: Remember when you insulted that person? Remember when you skipped your devotional time? Can’t you just try to do something right today? This spiritual battle rages across my mind most days.
But I take courage from the story of Jesus appearing to his disciples after his resurrection. He had breakfast with them after a miraculous catch of fish, and after breakfast, Jesus asked Peter three times if Peter loved him. Jesus used the repetition to remind Peter of the night when he denied Jesus three times. However, Jesus wasn’t condemning or shaming Peter. He was telling Peter, “Listen, I forgive you! Now go and tell others of my love.”
Peter thought he had failed miserably, but this wasn’t the end for him. By accepting Jesus’ unending forgiveness, he was able to reach thousands with the same grace that had turned his life around.
I still struggle with keeping my mind fixed on the Lord’s redeeming love. Too often I am tempted to focus on my needs and wants instead of on the work of Christ. But God constantly lifts me up from my failures to shape me into a more faithful Christ-follower.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Loving Father, thank you for your forgiveness and for helping us to live the way of Christ. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God can use any circumstance to teach me.
PRAYER FOCUS
People who struggle with shame
The Upper Room 4th August 2023 Devotional Message, is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More.
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