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Today’s Devotional: “Are There Brighter Days Ahead?”
Romans 11:15
For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?
Thoughts for Today:
Not long ago I was listening to a middle-aged man recount all he had lost over the last few years. The yacht went first, then the cars, large home, and most of his other material possessions. His marriage soon followed. He had risen far, which made his fall seem so much more devastating. Things got so bad financially that he eventually moved into his office. He slept most nights on the sofa and took hand towel baths in the public restroom. I asked him how he felt about the future, "Are there brighter days ahead?" His answer was a resounding, "No!"
It is interesting to me how many people there are in desperate circumstances, yet who steadfastly refuse to even consider a spiritual answer to their problem. Sure many will accept food from our Church's pantry, or financial help with rent -- but Jesus? "No thanks, keep Him for yourself." I often wonder, "Why does someone think we want to help? Do they even consider it is God expressing His love to them through the softening of our hearts?"
There is one distinguishing characteristic between a Christian who has fallen on hard times and a non-believer in similar circumstances -- the word "hope". Not the buzz-word or empty promises of political campaigns, but for the Christian -- true knowledge of a better tomorrow -- whether in this life or the one to come. Unfortunately, the non-believer has nothing to pin his hope upon. It is no wonder our current economic environment is filled with such pessimism. Without Jesus, there is really no reason to be optimistic -- all that awaits our struggles in this life -- is death.
Questions to Ponder:
Where are you on the "hope" meter? Optimistic or becoming a shade pessimistic? On what or whom have you pinned your hopes? Your job, business, college diploma, or retirement package? All of those can be fleeting, here today, yet gone tomorrow. My hope, trust, and confidence is in Jesus. He alone is the "reconciliation of the world" and is "life from the dead."
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Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.
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