June 1, 2012 (Proverbs 19-21; Romans 13)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “The night is almost gone; the day of Salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.” Romans 13:12 NLT
Observation: Paul is making the case for holy living. The “night” is this present evil time, and the “day” refers to the time of Christ’s return. Time was running out then, and it’s still running out today. We cannot afford to live as if that day is not coming. In fact we must make the choice to live everyday as if today is the day Christ will return. We must remove the dark deeds of wickedness like dirty clothes and put on the shining armor of right living. The word of God is the standard that all Christians should look to for direction in right living. The world will accept and promote wickedness and call it good, but God’s word is clear about the life that God is well pleased with. Christians no longer belong to the night, they belong to the day!
Application: Holiness is not a word that I hear to often when Christians are being described these days. In fact, in many cases, holiness is treated as if it is some outdated, old fashion word that should be removed from the modern dictionary. Holiness certainly has been removed from modern society. Sadly, holiness has been removed from many churches. But for the true Christian, holiness is a standard that cannot be removed or cast aside. Committed followers of Christ rely on the holiness of God to produce in them a sweet smelling savor of victory over sin for the entire world to see. It’s holiness that will separate the sheep from the goats. It’s holiness that ensures us; we will see Him face to face. The shining armor of right living is pleasing to the Lord and we should all strive to please God to the very best of our ability.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday. Thank You for Your strong right arm that fights for me and wins! Rise up and destroy my enemies’ plans! Give the order for me to be delivered and set free! I patiently wait with hopeful anticipation to see Your unfailing love for me revealed. I praise You in this storm and claim victory and deliverance, in Jesus name, Amen!